ADHD Increases the Risk of Injuries in Children, Study Finds
Children with ADHD are more likely to sustain injuries, according to a study published in in Academic Pediatrics.

November 11, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) -- which affects the brain function and behavior of children -- makes children more likely to suffer from injuries, according to a study published in Academic Pediatrics.

Researchers examined questionnaires filled out by the parents of fifth-grade children in Los Angeles, Houston and Birmingham, Alabama. The questionnaires asked for information about the children's ability to concentrate, their hyperactive behavior and their performance in school.

The study results found that children who had ADHD symptoms were more likely to sustain serious injuries -- such as sprains, broken bones and strains. The reason for this, researcher David Schwebel -- Director of the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Youth Safety Laboratory, says -- is because children with ADHD are often so distracted that they leap before they look.

"ADHD is a disorder that's associated with impulsive behaviors -- children do things without thinking. It is associated with inattention -- they are not really paying attention to risks in their environment. And it's associated with executive function -- planning ahead, thinking ahead and having inhibition when you need it," he explained in a statement. A combination of traits like inattentiveness and spontaneity often lead to children with ADHD engaging in behaviors that can increase their risk of injury.

For these reasons, it is important for parents and teachers to follow safety tips to try to lessen the chance of ADHD children getting hurt while under their care.

Keeping Children Safe at School

Whether your child has ADHD or not, accidents still happen -- especially at school. Here are some tips to protect children from injuries while they are at school:
- Educate children on playground safety and how to use the equipment properly
- Implement safety rules and be sure that children understand the ramifications of not adhering to them
- Make handrails available so that children avoid falls
- Require children to wear protective gear when they are playing sports
- Supervise children at all times to ensure they are safe

It is important for parents to understand that while their children are at school or engaging in a school-related activity, the school is responsible for their safety. Parents can educate their children on safety measures and provide supervision while at home to increase safety. However, it is the school's responsibility to provide equipment, proper instructions and supervision while at school or a school sponsored event.

If your child is hurt while under the school's care, you may be entitled to compensation for their injuries depending on the circumstances. Speak to a personal injury attorney to help you determine if your child's injury was the result of negligent supervision or an unsafe environment and to learn more about your child's legal rights.

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