Pennsylvania teen suffers head injury after accident

Pennsylvania vehicle accidents can have severe consequences, including life-changing injuries. A young teen is suffering from a head injury after a recent train accident in Phoenixville. The 14-year-old was found near railroad tracks after he was struck by part of a Norfolk Southern train. This is one of three train-pedestrian accidents that have occurred since May.

Authorities say that the boy was walking with friends when he was hit by a ladder that was attached to one of the train’s boxcars. The boy was conscious at first, but he eventually lost consciousness. A nearby witness called 911 and the boy was then taken by helicopter to a nearby hospital.

The teen awoke at the hospital but had to have serious surgery. He is being sedated at the hospital for the time being.

Any sort of impact to the head can result in a brain injury. An open head injury, or a skull fracture, is typically caused by accidents where the head comes in contact with a hard surface. A closed head injury does not involve a fracture but can mean brain swelling and blood clots inside the skull.

After an accident, it can be difficult to determine whether a head injury is in fact serious, especially if there are no outward signs of injury. However, if the victim appears to be confused, unusually tired, sick or numb on one side of the body, he should be taken to the hospital as soon as possible. With more serious accidents, victims of brain injuries may be able to receive financial assistance to help them move forward with their lives.

Source: The Mercury News, “Teen hit by train in Phoenixville treated for head injury,” Frank Otto, June 25, 2014