As parents, our children's safety and well-being are always at the forefront of our minds. Accidents and injuries can still happen despite our best efforts to protect them. In the unfortunate event that your child gets hurt in an accident, you should contact a child injury attorney near you as soon as you can.
Falls
Falls are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries among children, accounting for nearly 2.8 million emergency room visits each year in the United States. Children can fall from various heights, such as from playground equipment, beds, or even while walking or running. Some common fall-related injuries include:- Head injuries: Concussions, skull fractures, and brain injuries can result from a fall, especially if a child hits their head on a hard surface.
- Broken bones: Falls can lead to fractures in the arms, legs, or other body parts.
- Sprains and strains: Twisting or stretching ligaments and muscles during a fall can cause painful sprains and strains.
Burns
Burns are another common type of child injury. Various sources, including the following, can cause burns:Hot Liquids
Hot liquids commonly cause burns in children, particularly scalding from hot water, coffee, tea, or other beverages. These burns can be severe, as the hot liquid can quickly penetrate clothing and cause damage to the skin. Children's skin is thinner and more sensitive than adults, making them more susceptible to serious burns. To prevent scalding from hot liquids:- Always check the bath water temperature before placing your child in the tub.
- Set your water heater's thermostat to 120°F (49°C) or lower to reduce the risk of scalding.
- Keep hot drinks and foods away from the edges of tables and counters, and use placemats instead of tablecloths, which curious children can easily pull down.
- When cooking, use the back burners of your stove and turn pot handles towards the back to prevent children from grabbing them.
Fire and Flames
Children can be fascinated by the sight of open flames from candles, fireplaces, or stoves, but if they come into contact with these heat sources, they can cause serious burns. Burns from fire and flames can be particularly severe, as the high temperatures can quickly damage multiple layers of skin and underlying tissues. To prevent burns from fire and flames, keep candles, matches, and lighters out of reach of children and never leave them unattended. Use fireplace screens to prevent sparks and embers from escaping and keep children safe from open flames. If your child suffers burns due to a fire because of someone’s negligence, you might have an injury claim. Electrical Burns
Electrical burns can occur when children come into contact with live electrical outlets, frayed cords, or malfunctioning appliances. These burns can be particularly dangerous, as the electrical current can cause internal damage to tissues and organs in addition to external burns. Property owners should:- Cover all unused outlets with safety covers to prevent electrical burns and replace any frayed or damaged electrical cords.
- Keep electrical appliances and cords out of reach of children, and teach them never to touch or play with electrical outlets or appliances.
- Regularly inspect your home for potential electrical hazards, and have any necessary repairs performed by a qualified electrician.
Chemical Burns
Household cleaners, detergents, and other chemicals can cause serious chemical burns if they come into contact with a child's skin or eyes. These burns can be particularly damaging, as the chemicals can continue to react with the skin even after initial contact, leading to more severe injuries.Poisoning
Poisoning is a serious risk for children, with over 300 children treated in emergency rooms daily for poisoning-related injuries. Various substances, including the following, can poison children:Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications can be extremely harmful if ingested by children. Many common medications, such as pain relievers, cough syrups, and vitamins, can cause serious side effects or even be toxic when taken in large doses. Medications may attract children because they resemble candy or other treats. To prevent medication poisoning, adults should always store medicines in their original, child-resistant containers and keep them out of reach and sight of children. Never refer to medication as "candy" or other appealing terms; this can encourage children to seek them out. Be sure to properly dispose of unused or expired medications, and never share prescription medications with others. When others fail to properly handle medication and injure your child, contact a child injury lawyer right away.Household Cleaners
Household cleaners, such as bleach, detergents, and disinfectants, can be highly toxic if swallowed or inhaled by children. These products often contain harsh chemicals that can cause burns, respiratory issues, or other serious health problems. Children may find these products appealing due to their colorful packaging or pleasant scents. To keep children safe from household cleaners:- Store them in locked cabinets or high, out-of-reach places to keep them safe from household cleaners.
- Keep products in their original containers with labels intact, and never transfer them to unmarked or food containers, which can confuse children.
- When you use cleaners, ventilate the area well and keep children away until you have safely stored the products.
Pesticides and Herbicides
Pesticides and herbicides used in gardening and lawn care can be dangerous if ingested or absorbed through the skin. These chemicals aim to kill insects and weeds but can also harm humans, particularly children with smaller bodies and developing systems. Exposure to these chemicals can cause a range of symptoms, from skin and eye irritation to more severe neurological problems.Carbon Monoxide
Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas that can be lethal if inhaled in large quantities. Various household appliances, including furnaces, water heaters, and stoves, burn gasoline, wood, coal, or natural gas. When these appliances malfunction or are used in poorly ventilated spaces, CO can build up and cause serious health problems or even death. Symptoms of CO poisoning can mimic those of the flu, including headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and confusion. To prevent CO poisoning, install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home and near sleeping areas. Have your heating system, water heater, and any other gas, oil, or coal-burning appliances serviced by a qualified technician annually. Never use portable generators, camp stoves, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning devices inside your home or garage, even if doors and windows are open. An experienced injury attorney is necessary if your child suffers illness due to carbon monoxide poisoning. By understanding the risks associated with these common household hazards and taking steps to prevent exposure, parents can help keep their children safe from accidental poisoning. Regular supervision, proper storage, and age-appropriate education are key to reducing the risk of these preventable injuries. Unfortunately, many people are not careful, and your child might get hurt. Seek help from a child injury lawyer if you believe a household hazard has unjustly injured your child.Drowning
Drowning is a leading cause of death among children, particularly those under the age of five. Children can drown in various bodies of water, including:Swimming Pools
Swimming pools, both in-ground and above-ground, pose a significant drowning risk for children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death for children ages one to four, and many of these drownings occur in home swimming pools. Children can slip into pools unnoticed, and even experienced swimmers can become tired or disoriented in the water.Bathtubs
While bathtubs are often associated with relaxation and cleanliness, they can also pose a serious drowning risk for young children. Children can drown in as little as one to two inches of water, and it can happen quickly and silently. Infants and toddlers are particularly at risk, as they may not have the strength or coordination to lift their heads out of the water if they slip or fall.Natural Bodies of Water
Lakes, rivers, and oceans can be enjoyable places for children to swim and play, but they also present unique drowning risks. These natural bodies of water can have strong currents, unexpected drop-offs, and underwater hazards that can be difficult for children to navigate, especially if they are not strong swimmers. Cold water temperatures can also quickly lead to hypothermia, which can cause confusion, fatigue, and loss of consciousness. By understanding the unique risks associated with these different bodies of water and taking steps to prevent drowning, parents can help keep their children safe while allowing them to enjoy the benefits of swimming and water play. Regular supervision, proper use of safety equipment, and age-appropriate education are key to reducing the risk of these tragic accidents. If you believe your child has drowned due to someone else's negligence, reach out to an attorney for a free consultation.Choking and Suffocation
Choking and suffocation are serious risks for young children, as they can occur quickly and silently. Common causes of choking and suffocation include: - Small objects: Young children may put small toys, coins, or other objects in their mouths, which can lead to choking.
- Food: Certain foods, such as grapes, hot dogs, and hard candies, can pose a choking risk for children.
- Suffocation: Infants may suffocate if they become tangled in blankets or bedding or if they sleep on soft surfaces like couches or adult beds.
- Keep small objects out of reach and ensure that toys are age-appropriate.
- Cut food into small, manageable pieces and supervise children while they eat.
- Follow safe sleep guidelines for infants, including placing them on their backs on a firm surface without loose bedding or toys.
Sports and Recreational Injuries
As children grow older and become more involved in sports and recreational activities, the risk of related injuries increases. Common sports and recreational injuries include:- Sprains and strains: Overuse or sudden twisting motions can cause sprains and strains in the ankles, knees, or wrists.
- Fractures: High-impact collisions or falls can lead to broken bones.
- Concussions: Blows to the head during contact sports or falls can result in concussions, which are a type of traumatic brain injury.
Bicycle and Pedestrian Accidents
Bicycle and pedestrian accidents are a significant cause of child injuries, particularly among older children and teenagers. Common causes of these accidents include:- Collisions with vehicles: Children on bicycles or foot can be struck by cars, especially if they are not following traffic safety rules.
- Falls: Children can fall from bicycles due to uneven surfaces, obstacles, or loss of control.
How Much Does a Child Injury Attorney Cost?
If your child has been hurt, you may be concerned about the cost of hiring a lawyer. Fortunately, personal injury attorneys take their cases on contingency, meaning they only get paid if they recover compensation for their clients. As a result, you can retain a lawyer to represent you at no cost to you and will never have to pay legal bills unless you win your case.Contact a Child Injury Lawyer Today
While it's impossible to prevent all childhood injuries, being aware of the most common types and taking proactive steps to minimize risks can go a long way in keeping our children safe. By childproofing our homes, supervising our children during play, and teaching them important safety skills, we can help reduce the likelihood of serious injuries. If your child has suffered an injury due to someone else's negligence, seek the help of a qualified and experienced personal injury attorney. A skilled lawyer can help protect your rights and secure the compensation your child deserves for their injuries and ongoing care.