Nearly three-quarters of the 4.1 million traumatic brain injuries (TBI) suffered by children and teens between 2010 and 2013 were caused by consumer products, according to research published in the journal Brain Injury.
TBI occurs when the brain receives sudden trauma, such as a blow to the head or neck. Researchers found that 72% of emergency room visits for brain injuries during those three years were related to a wide variety of factors and products.
What product groups are most affected?
Researchers found the most common activities and products related to TBIs in children are:
- 28.8%: Sports and recreation
- 17.2%: Home furnishings and fixtures
- 17.1%: Home structures and construction materials
- 2.7%: Nursery equipment
- 2.4%: Children’s toys
What are the top 10 risks?
The study found 10 products and activities are more likely to cause non-fatal TBIs in children from less than a year old to age 19. They are:
- Floors
- Beds
- Football
- Stairs
- Bicycles
- Basketball
- Walls and ceilings
- Chairs
- Soccer
- Tables
Researchers release safety recommendations
The study identified several steps you can take to prevent TBI in children around your home, including adding safety devices, such as stair gates, using handrails without sharp edges, removing tripping hazards, such as area rugs and improved lighting. Researchers say one surprising detail they uncovered is that car seats are the fifth leading cause of head injuries for infants when misused. If someone else’s negligence injures your child, an experienced personal injury attorney here in Pennsylvania will work to get you the compensation you deserve.
