Preventing Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries can be devastating to both individuals and families. They can require years, expensive treatment and rehabilitation, and thousands of dollars in order to achieve recovery. The best way to resolve traumatic brain injuries is to prevent them from ever happening in the first place. Follow these steps to prevent traumatic brain injuries:
Avoid Drug and Alcohol Use
Drug and alcohol use is one of the leading catalysts for traumatic brain injuries. Never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Additionally, take care with regards to driving while taking prescription medications (even those lawfully prescribed), driving while tired or sleep-deprived, or driving under the influence of caffeine and everyday substances, all of which can contribute to an accident causing a traumatic brain injury for drivers, passengers, and those in other vehicles on the road. When not behind the wheel, still be cautious using these substances (or, better yet, avoid them altogether). Drug and alcohol use can fuel reckless behavior or simple accidents, which can cause traumatic brain injuries.
Drive Safely
Beyond never driving under the influence, avoid other risky driving habits or activities. Always wear a seat belt when traveling in a vehicle. Ensure that small children are strapped securely in appropriate and legally-required car seats or booster seats and are always seated in the back seat of the vehicle. Avoid distracting activities like texting, talking on the phone, applying makeup, or doing similar things while controlling a vehicle (even if you are only sitting at a stoplight). If you ride a motorcycle, be sure to wear a helmet and drive defensively to avoid accidents.
Practice Sports Safety
Sporting activities are wonderful ways to get some exercise and maintain your health. However, they can also be dangerous without the proper equipment. Invest in a well-fitted, highly-rated helmet and strap-on guards (including a mouth guard) in order to participate safely in activities like riding vehicles (bicycles, snowmobiles, jet skis, etc.), playing sports with high-speed projectiles (like baseball) or using sports equipment like skateboards, roller skates, and scooters. Also use helmets to protect yourself while participating in outdoor activities like construction, horseback riding, or other activities that pose a risk of head injury.
Protect At-Risk Individuals
Children and the elderly are most at-risk for traumatic brain injuries. Aside from encouraging such individuals to practice the above prevention techniques, take precautions like installing handrails and safety gates, nonslip mats, and rugs that are secured to the flooring. Keep clutter off the floor and away from stairways, and ensure that lighting adequately shows surfaces and potential tripping hazards. For both children and the elderly, ensure there is a way for children and the elderly to alert others if they need help. Help buttons and medical alert devices may be appropriate.
Traumatic brain injuries are all too common and can substantially derail the lives of individuals. If you or a loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, it may be possible to recover medical expenses and treatment costs. At Barbas, Nunez, Sanders, Butler & Hovsepian, Lawyers and Counselors at Law in Tampa, our experienced personal injury lawyers can help acquire the relief you deserve. Call toll-free at 1 (800) 227-2275 for a consultation today.
