Washington DC Head Injuries

Safety Precautions to Avoid Accidents

Traumatic head or brain injury (TBI) is an increasing problem in the United States because of the long-term consequences affecting survivors and their families. The Law Offices of Anastopoulo & Clore, LLC, is a Washington, DC head injury law firm which recommends prevention as the first defense against TBI. Even though not every injury can be prevented, use of protective equipment (such as seat belts and helmets) and good safety precautions (such as using a hand rail on stairs or using care while walking) can often keep the injury from being as severe.

US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) statistics for 2006 indicate that more than one million people were treated at emergency rooms for head injuries related to common products found around the home. The actual number of head injuries is greater, because many people are treated at other locations or do not seek treatment.

Washington DC traumatic brain injury results from rapid acceleration and deceleration of the brain inside the skull such as during a car crash, or trauma such as heads colliding with solid objects. Injuries may be open or closed but local or widespread physical damage throughout the brain may ensue.

Falls are the leading cause of death and serious injury among American senior citizens and are also the most common cause of TBI, with TBI accounting for 46% of fatal falls among older adults. According to statistics acquired from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) 2006 Head Injuries report, the top ten home-related products contributing to the highest number of estimated head injuries treated in 2006 were:

1. Floors 260,983
2. Stairs or Steps 114,752
3. Beds or Bed frames 101,548
4. Tables 70,452
5. Ceilings and Walls 64,356
6. Chairs 50,482
7. Cabinets, Racks, Room Dividers and Shelves 40,014
8. Bathtubs or Showers 34,446
9. Doors 32,009
10. Desks, Chests, Bureaus or Buffets 26,110

Simple changes you can make at home can help prevent falls and potential head injuries. The American Association of Neurological Surgeons suggest:

Inside the Home

• Check all stair railings and steps
• Wear proper shoes with slip-resistant soles
• Buy bath mats and rugs with slip-resistant backing
• Secure rugs and lift them periodically to inspect the backing for wear
• Do not walk on slippery, freshly washed floors and avoid floor waxes
• Install grab bars and handrails if you are frail or elderly
• Secure loose electrical cords

Outside the Home

• Remove ice and snow from trafficked areas during dangerous weather conditions
• Inspect and remove debris from walkways, driveways, porches, and yards
• Inspect and remove debris from lawns before mowing or gardening
• Make sure that ladders are stable and secure before using them
• Buckle up and use child safety seats

If you have sustained a head injury you need the advice and counsel of respected head injury attorneys in Washington, DC who understand the complications of TBI as well the long-term requirements for care and attendant financial recovery requirements.

The Law Offices of Anastopoulo & Clore, LLC are responsive and sensitive Washington DC brain injury lawyers with many years experience representing head injury victims. Call us for a free initial consultation at (866) 377-3093, or contact us by submitting our web form.