Pursuing Workers’ Compensation Claims for Traumatic Brain Injuries in Chicago

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can dramatically change a worker’s life. All it takes is a few seconds, and a worker might face a completely different future. After a knock to the head, a worker might need to relearn basic tasks like walking, speaking, eating, and dressing. They may also develop serious psychological issues as a direct result of their brain injury. Can a workers’ compensation claim in Chicago help address these ailments?

How Do Workplace Brain Injuries Usually Occur?

Workplace brain injuries can occur in various ways. One of the most common workplace injuries is a fall, and this can certainly cause workers to knock their heads on the ground. This hazard may endanger construction workers, office workers, mail carriers, and virtually all other employees in Chicago. Someone might slip down a flight of stairs or fall multiple stories. They might also strike their head on the ground after slipping on a puddle.

Other brain injuries may involve vehicles, machinery, or heavy equipment. Some of this equipment may be defective, and construction workers face threats from above when materials fall from elevated heights. Even with hard hats, it is often impossible to mitigate the impact of a piece of metal or lumber. A car crash can also cause a TBI, and this is common for professional drivers.

What Kind of Compensation Can I Get for a Workplace Brain Injury?

You may be able to get compensation for various damages after a workplace brain injury. Perhaps the most pressing loss you’ll face is the expense of your medical treatment. This can be expensive in the immediate aftermath of your brain injury, especially if you require surgery. In the months and years following your accident, you might also face considerable rehabilitation needs. Sometimes, rehab continues for life after a TBI. Fortunately, a workers’ compensation claim can cover the total cost of your medical treatment.

Workers’ comp can also cover a portion of the wages you miss due to your brain injury. In the event of a permanently disabling brain injury, this compensation can be significant. If your loved one suffered a brain injury at work and is now mentally incapacitated, you may be able to pursue a workers’ compensation claim on their behalf. For example, they may be in a comatose or vegetative state. Speak with a lawyer to learn more about this course of action.

Can I Recover Compensation for Psychological Issues?

Brain injuries may also trigger various psychological issues. These might include PTSD, depression, personality changes, heightened aggression, social withdrawal, anxiety, and much more. Workers’ comp may provide additional compensation for these issues as long as they stem from a physical brain injury.

Can a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Chicago Help After a TBI?

A workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago may be able to guide workers toward compensation and closure after suffering TBIs. These brain injuries may be invisible to the casual observer, but they can cause drastic physical and mental changes. To assess your next potential steps, consider contacting Connolly Injury Law today.

Sources: 

iwcc.illinois.gov/

ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi#:~:text=A%20traumatic%20brain%20injury%20(TBI)%20refers%20to%20a%20brain%20injury,can%20also%20cause%20a%20TBI.