Every year, hundreds of thousands of children across the country, including many in South Carolina, are treated for head injuries. Brain injuries are considered to be the leading cause of death and disability of those between the birth and 19 years of age. When such injuries occur due to another’s negligence, the victims or their surviving family members may have legal recourse.
According to current statistics, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) make up for approximately 435,000 emergency room visits for children up to the age of 14. Of that same age group, nearly 2,700 will die and about 40,000 will require hospitalization. On average, another 129,000 teens, ages 15 to 19, are also expected to be treated in emergency departments for TBI every year.
Brain injuries can have devastating effects on anyone, but when it comes to children, the results can be particularly troubling. Adults often have to relearn concepts which they already knew, which can be difficult. However, children will generally have to learn new concepts with cognitive impairments, making recovery extremely tough. Deficits that are often seen in children with brain injuries include:
- Processing impairments
- Difficulty with judgment and reasoning skills
- Physical disabilities
Children tend to experience brain injuries as a result of auto accidents, falls or neglect — among various other causes. Those whose injuries are the result of someone else’s negligence may be entitled to compensation. Legal claims may be filed in a South Carolina civil court against the individual or individuals believed responsible. Through successfully litigation, monetary judgments may be awarded which can help victims and/or their families get the assistance and services they need moving forward.
Source: biausa.org, “Children and Brain Injury“, Accessed on Nov. 5, 2015