- March 4, 2022
A traumatic brain injury could change a person’s life. Everyone wants to get to work, avoid accidents, and come back in one piece. Unfortunately, this isn’t the reality for many people. There are instances where workers fall from heights, get struck by objects, or are in the middle of an explosion. Traumatic brain injury is the most likely consequence of these workplace accidents.
This article takes an in-depth look into traumatic brain injury in a North Carolina workplace. We will discover how dangerous it can be to a worker and the role of a North Carolina workers’ compensation lawyer.
What Is Traumatic Brain Injury?
Traumatic brain injury or TBI is damage or injury to the brain which results from an external force inflicting a blow to the head. When TBI occurs, the brain may temporarily or permanently lose its normal functioning. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report shows that for every 100,000 deaths in America, traumatic brain injury is responsible for 17.3% of them.
It also shows that southern states with a high rural population rank high in average TBI deaths. So, if you work in a southern state like North Carolina, you are more likely to experience traumatic brain injury than workers in northern states. This higher propensity for TBI injuries is why you should be aware of the dangers of TBI. You should also know about your rights in the workplace if it occurs. Contacting an experienced Charlotte workers’ compensation attorney is a big step in that direction.
TBI and the Construction Industry
A study conducted from 2003 to 2010 provides more detail into the role of the construction industry in TBI. For example, the research showed that the construction industry accounts for a sizable share of workplace traumatic brain injuries and deaths.
About 24% of workplace TBI-related fatalities from 2013 to 2010 happened in construction sites. The study also discovered that workers in construction companies with less than 20 staff are more likely to die from TBI than their counterparts in larger ones. It also showed that workers who were 65 years and older accounted for the highest fatality rate.
Causes of Traumatic Brain Injury
The causes of TBI in the workplace are pretty numerous. However, a few stand out because they almost always result in traumatic brain injury. These are:
- Falls
- Collisions
- Impact from falling objects
- Explosions
Dangers of Workplace Traumatic Brain Injury
The effects of TBI are usually life-changing and devastating. The part of the brain affected by the impact (forehead, left, right, or the whole brain) determines the damage. The dangers of workplace traumatic brain injury are:
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Brain Death
The brain is inactive, and the victim cannot breathe without the aid of a life support machine. A person who is brain dead has no hope of recovery.
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Post-Traumatic Epilepsy
Epilepsy develops, characterized by continual seizures.
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Swelling of the Brain
A condition called hydrocephalus develops, where fluid spreads to any available space in the brain, causing the brain to swell.
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Infections
When there is a penetration of objects into the brain, primarily due to an explosion, this foreign body damages brain tissues, and as a result, introduces bacterial infections into the brain.
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Nerve Damage
The nerves are damaged, which leads to facial palsy, dizziness, loss of sight, hearing, and smell.
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Damage of Blood Vessels
Blood vessels can get damaged by TBI leading to stroke and other ailments.
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Chronic Headaches
The victim develops chronic and sharp headaches. The headaches will typically continue for several months.
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Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline manifests as memory loss, inability to learn and reason effectively, and poor judgment.
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Coma and Vegetative State
A coma is a prolonged state of unconsciousness, lack of awareness, and response. After a while, the victim could either recover or remain in a vegetative state where they can only make minor body movements. Coma and vegetative states are manifestations of injury to the whole brain and not just a part of it.
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Death
TBI may result in the death of the worker.
Contact Charlotte Workers’ Compensation Lawyers Now!
A traumatic brain injury is usually the beginning of a tough time for employees, their families, and loved ones. Suppose you or your loved one suffers a traumatic brain injury while at work; you will need the services of experienced Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyers.
Partnering with a Charlotte workers’ compensation lawyer will increase your chances of securing adequate compensation. Our attorneys will also protect your rights and ensure you don’t suffer discrimination for filing a claim. Contact us now to book a free initial consultation.
