June is Brain Injury Awareness Month across Canada. It is also a month when children will be let out of school for the summer and when more people endeavor to enjoy the outdoors. That’s why numerous brain injury awareness associations across the country want to remind the public about how to avoid head injuries and traumatic brain injuries as they enjoy the summer weather.
Children should wear helmets when operating a bicycle, riding a skateboard or scooter, or rollerblading. We mentioned in a previous blog post that although helmets are only partially effective, they do act as a buffer against more serious head trauma.
The Government of Canada adds the following tips:
• Operate motor vehicles safely and wear a helmet when on a motorcycle or ATV
• Wear the proper headgear for sports such as hockey, football and biking;
• Take action to prevent falls among older adults in their homes and communities;
• Ensure that play areas are clear of hazards; and
• Follow proper safety procedures when taking part in organized sports and other activities.
Many brain injuries are associated with automobile accidents. We remain critical of the proposed government changes to the automobile legislation in Ontario which will dramatically reduce the amount of compensation available to seriously injured survivors of motor vehicle accidents. We also advocate prevention, which is critical. Not drinking and driving, or avoiding texting while driving, are ways that help keep you and other drivers safe while out on the road.
The chosen theme of the Ontario Brain Injury Association, “I am the Face of Brain Injury,” reminds us that brain injuries can happen to anyone. The best thing that any of us can do is protect ourselves by protecting our heads and consulting with an brain injury accident lawyer to protect our rights.
