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How Can I Tell if My Child Has a Concussion From a Car Accident?

December 3, 2021
child concussion

Concussions are common car accident injuries. During an accident, a driver or passenger can hit their head on an object in the car, or they can be injured by the head violently moving around. Some people are more at risk for head injuries.

On average, 35,000 children sustain traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) related to car accidents each year, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In a car accident, the chances of a child suffering a concussion are high. A child can get a concussion from the following:

  • Improper seating.
  • Defective child seat.
  • Defective airbag or seat belt.
  • Sudden and violent shaking of the head, such as whiplash.
  • Hitting the head against a hard object.

Fortunately, there are some preventative measures a parent can do to help reduce the chance of their child suffering a concussion. When in a car, properly fitted car seats designed for your child’s specific age group and weight help reduce head injuries.

What Are the Symptoms of a Concussion?

Concussions are difficult to diagnose, as most people are not aware of their injury, which is why it is so important to go to a doctor after a car accident. It is even more difficult with children, especially if the injury occurs before the child is old enough to communicate.

Parents should monitor their children and watch out for these symptoms following a car accident:

  • Loss of consciousness.
  • Headaches.
  • Blurred vision.
  • Loss of balance.
  • Dizziness.
  • Sudden mood changes.
  • Vomiting or nausea.
  • Inability to concentrate.
  • Fatigue.
  • Amnesia.
  • Confusion.
  • Irregular sleep patterns.
  • Slurred speech or inability to communicate.

How Are Concussions Diagnosed in Children?

There are different tests a doctor can perform to determine if your child has a concussion. After discussing your child’s medical history and their symptoms, a doctor may want to have blood tests performed after a physical examination. If necessary, additional tests will be done, such as X-rays and other imaging scans, all of which will show more detail and can determine the severity of the injury.

How Are Concussions Treated?

Treatment for a concussion depends on your child’s symptoms, their overall health, and the severity of the injury. Generally, treatment for a concussion will include:

  • Icing the area to reduce swelling.
  • Rest.
  • Stitches if there is a wound.
  • Antibiotic ointment and bandages.

There is a possibility that symptoms can worsen overtime, requiring hospitalization for closer monitoring. The child may also need:

  • Surgery.
  • Pain medication.
  • Breathing assistance, such as a ventilator.
  • Referral to a specialist.
  • Further diagnostic tests.

If you and your child are in any type of car accident, it is important to get evaluated by a medical professional right away. If you or your child has serious injuries, it is also helpful to speak to a lawyer.

Media Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks Help Parents and Children Who Have Accident-Related Brain Injuries A car accident is a harrowing experience, especially if your child has injuries. Our Media car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. can help you and your family. Call us at 610-565-3701 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation. From our offices located in Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients throughout Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgome