Construction Accidents and Head Injuries
In 2016, 4,693 private sector workers were killed while on the job. Of this number, 21.1 percent of workers were in the construction industry; in fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that there are around 150,000 construction injuries every year. These numbers emphasize the dangers of construction work and why proper safety is essential, whether it’s demolition job, building new structures, or roadwork. Our law firm always takes construction accidents seriously, and we’ve helped numerous people in the greater Houston, TX area with their cases.
Head trauma and brain injuries are common in construction work given all of the hazards commonly encountered on the job. Let’s take a moment to consider some of the effects of head injuries and how our legal team can help.
OSHA’s Fatal Four
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) keeps records on the so-called “fatal four,” which are some of the leading causes of death while people are on the job. The fatal four are as follows:
- Falls
- Struck by objects
- Electrocution
- Caught-in/caught between objects
It’s estimated that the fatal four results in 63.7 percent of construction worker fatalities in 2016. As you can imagine, any of the fatal four can result in some form of head injury or trauma. Falls can lead to major head injuries, especially if people land head first or plummet from tall structures. Falling objects that strike people in the head can also lead to serious trauma.
Wearing Head Protection Is Crucial
Whenever a worker is at a construction site, it’s important that he or she wear a helmet at all times. A hard hat, goggles, and other kinds of head and face protection can mean the difference between life and death. Proper safety attire such as gloves, reflective vests, face masks, and so forth can also improve overall workplace safety.
Yet even with head protection and proper safety gear, accidents can happen and have lasting repercussions.
The Effects of a Head Injury
A below to the head or face can result in skull fractures as well as facial disfigurement. Eye injuries as well as injuries around the eyes (such as eye socket/orbital bone fractures) could lead to vision impairment and even vision loss.
Potential for Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
In addition to injuries affecting the facial features and skull, there is also the risk of injury victims experiencing brain damage in varying degrees. A concussion or a brain contusion could have lasting effects on mood, motor skills, and general wellness that last for many years after the initial incident.
Worker’s Compensation Benefits
Following a serious head injury, construction workers can apply for worker’s compensation benefits to cover lost wages, medical expenses, and other losses incurred associated with the on-the-job injury. This can be essential for making a full recovery and return to work.
Pursuing Legal Action Against Your Employer
Some employees may consider foregoing worker’s compensation benefits and seeking legal action against their employer. If work conditions were unsafe or some form of negligence resulted in the head injury, the construction company or third-parties at the site could be liable for the accident.
How a Construction Accident Attorney Can Help
Whether it’s filing a worker’s compensation appeal or considering legal action against an employer, a lawyer can offer crucial insight into the legal process and what options might be best for you.
Contact an Experience Injury Accident Lawyer
For more information on your legal rights and options following a catastrophic workplace injury, be sure to contact an experienced injury accident lawyer. Our legal team is here to help you in your time of legal need.
