What Are the Long-Term Effects of a Workplace Head Injury?

 Posted on November 13, 2019 in Workers' Compensation

Some occupations are considered to have an increased risk of head injuries, such as athletes or construction workers. However, anyone can suffer a head injury if they fall and hit their head or if they are hit by a piece of equipment. In Illinois, all companies are required to carry workers’ compensation insurance for their employees. This is in the event a worker gets hurt on the job. In certain cases, a person may sustain life-altering complications that may require extensive rehabilitation or even a career change. Due to the complex nature of head injuries, symptoms may not appear until days or weeks after an accident. That is why it is imperative to know your rights regarding filing a workers’ compensation claim.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Athletes, as well as their parents and coaches, are more cognizant of the risk of concussions these days, which has led to an increased awareness of traumatic brain injuries (TBI). According to researchers at Mayo Clinic, TBI results from a blow or jolt to the head or body. It can also be caused by an object that penetrates the brain tissue.

This type of injury can also occur in the workplace, regardless of the type of occupation. Falls from a ladder or down a flight of stairs are the most common cause of TBI overall, which can occur in different work environments.

Depending on the circumstances of the accident, a head injury can have different consequences. A “mild” traumatic brain injury may only affect brain cells for a temporary period of time. A more severe traumatic brain injury can result in bruising, torn tissues, and bleeding on the brain, causing significant damage to this important organ. This type of TBI can result in long-term physical and mental conditions or in extreme cases, even death.

Some of the more significant complications may include:

• Profound confusion
• Agitation, combativeness, or atypical behavior
• Slurred speech
• Altered consciousness
• Coma
• Vegetative state
• Seizures
• Vertigo
• Infections (meningitis)
• Brain death

Filing a Workers’ Comp Claim

When you are hurt on the job, it can have devastating ramifications. Filing a workers’ compensation claim can help you recover financially due to costly medical bills and lost wages. Certain steps need to be taken to increase the likelihood of receiving benefits. Here is what you should do if you suffer a head injury at work:

• Seek immediate medical attention.
• Notify your employer of the injury within 45 days.
• Document your injuries (photos, video).
• Keep in contact with your employer during your recovery.
• Follow up on the status of your claim.

It is also important to note that under Illinois law, you can file for workers’ compensation benefits within three years from the date of the accident. In some cases, an employer may deny your claim; however, you can appeal the decision to the Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Contact a DuPage County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

Workplace accidents can happen in any type of industry, even if all safety protocols are followed. A head injury may not seem serious at first, but delayed symptoms can lead to months of rehab or a debilitating lifestyle. If you or a loved one suffered a fall or hit to the head while performing your job, you may be able to recover damages for lost wages as well as your pain and suffering. At the Law Offices of David W. Clark, P.C., we will aggressively advocate on your behalf to make sure you receive the compensation you need and deserve to live a productive life. To schedule a free consultation with a Wheaton workplace injury attorney, call our office today at 630-665-5678.

Sources:

https://www2.illinois.gov/sites/iwcc/Pages/default.aspx

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2430

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557