Avoiding Head Injuries While Enjoying Winter Sports

Each season brings with it new and exciting activities in which to engage and winter is no exception. The cold weather brings snowboarding, skiing, and sledding, activities millions of people enjoy. But although these activities can prove quite fun, they can also prove extremely dangerous – leading to serious injury or even death – when the right precautions are not taken.

According to the Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center, each year there are almost 4 million Americans who are diagnosed with sport- or other recreational-related brain injuries. In 2012, 4,365 people in Oklahoma experienced traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Of these individuals, 841 died as a result.

A TBI can occur due to a direct hit, jolt, or bump to the head, rapid acceleration or deceleration of the head from whiplash, or an injury that penetrates the head and disrupts normal brain function. This often leads to permanent disability or even death.

TBIs can range from mild concussions to life-threatening injuries. There are specific symptoms for which to keep an eye out. These include:

• Nausea/vomiting after injury
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Feeling slower than normal
• Difficulty with balance
• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty remembering new information
• Sensitivity to light or noise

If your concussive symptoms and injuries are mild and get better over time it is likely that they are not as severe. However, if you experience any worsening symptoms or decreased consciousness, you must seek medical attention immediately. Dial 9-1-1 if you are more than a few minutes away from the nearest hospital. Do not use the loss of consciousness as a gauge for whether or not you are injured, as it only occurs in approximately 10 percent of all concussions.

What Can You Do?

Although TBIs are never fully preventable, the following can help you to reduce the severity of injury:

• Always wearing a properly-fitting helmet during winter or contact sports
• If you have a serious fall, replace your helmet
• Don’t push your athletic boundaries unless you are well-prepared
• Remain alert
• Always keep an eye on children participating in any activities that put them at risk for TBI

Graves McLain Can Help.

If you or a loved one has experienced a traumatic brain injury while engaged in a winter sport, it can have a major impact on your life. The attorneys at Graves McLain have substantial experience in representing individuals in these types of accidents. There is no charge for Graves McLain to review your case. If we represent you, we will handle your case on a contingency fee basis. Call the experienced Personal Injury Attorneys at Graves McLain at 918-359-6600. Trust our team. We’re here to help.

Graves McLain – Serious Lawyers for Serious Injuries.