Attorney
Worksites present numerous situations in which devastating construction head injuries can occur, in addition to fall hazards and equipment-based dangers. Construction workers fill an essential role, but they do so at great risk to themselves.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports there were 162,500 construction injuries in 2021. At Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP, we understand how gravely these types of injuries can affect your life. We strive to secure the full compensation that construction workers across Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia deserve after a catastrophic accident on the job.
The Most Common Construction Head Injuries
A number of dangerous conditions can lead to head injuries on a construction site, even when all workers are wearing appropriate safety gear and handling equipment properly. Falling objects, slips-and-trips, and the negligence of other individuals on the site can all cause catastrophic injuries. Being familiar with some of the most common head injuries may make all the difference in keeping you safe or taking the right actions if an injury does occur.
1. Concussions
A concussion can happen either because of a direct blow to the head or due to violent shaking of the whole body. It is worth noting that even a mild blow to the head can cause a concussion, and one does not necessarily lead to a loss of consciousness. If you experience a workplace accident and feel symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or dizziness, these may be signs of a concussion that require immediate medical attention.
2. Hemorrhages
A hemorrhage is a tear in the brain that leads to dangerous internal bleeding. This common construction head injury tends to occur when an impact on the head causes an artery in the brain to burst. Without immediate treatment, the blood can pool and exert pressure that cuts off oxygen to the brain, possibly leading to a stroke and permanent brain damage.
3. Skull Fractures
A fractured skull is an unfortunately common outcome after a slip-and-fall, struck-by accident, or falling object accident on construction sites. While construction safety helmets can mitigate the possibility of a skull fracture by absorbing the force of an impact, the chances of a construction head injury are never zero. If you sustain a blow to the head under any circumstances, your top priority should be to get a physician’s opinion, especially if you notice any bruising, swelling, or nausea afterward.
4. Traumatic Brain Injuries
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines a traumatic brain injury as a disruption in the normal function of the brain caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. The CDC also reports that falls from roofs, ladders, and scaffolds lead to more than half of all fatal work-related TBIs. Severe TBIs, especially those left untreated for too long, may ultimately require long-term rehabilitation or lead to permanent disabilities.
5. Penetrating Head Wounds
Even more severe than a skull fracture, a penetrating head wound entails material actually piercing the skull. This can happen as a result of falling debris, shrapnel from a blast or impact, or falling onto concrete outcroppings. Bear in mind that on a construction site, practically any object can become a deadly projectile at any time.
Precautions for Protecting Yourself From a Construction Head Injury
Your first line of defense against construction head injuries is your personal protective equipment. Workers should never neglect to use their PPE at all times while on or near a construction site. Wearing a regulation hard helmet is perhaps the best way to prevent potential head injuries, but it is also important to wear a bright-colored safety vest that can help other individuals notice you and act with appropriate care.
Likewise, you also have the responsibility of being aware of your surroundings while on site. Not only is this essential for ensuring that you do not cause harm to other workers, but it also makes it more possible for you to respond to possible hazards before a life-threatening situation occurs. Following safety protocols trumps everything else while on a construction site.
Also remember the importance of seeking medical attention immediately after any accident, no matter how seemingly minor it may be. You may be able to avoid or overcome many lasting effects of construction head injuries simply by receiving prompt treatment. Seeing a physician as soon as possible after an accident also ensures you obtain crucial medical documentation that can strengthen your case if you need to file a personal injury claim.
The Role of an Attorney in Cases Involving Construction Head Injuries
In the aftermath of a catastrophic construction site accident, your focus should be on being comfortable and avoiding stress as you rest and recover. Working with a Washington D.C. personal injury attorney means having someone on your side who can handle the legal side of your case. You might understandably have concerns about getting compensation for your medical costs and returning to work, but your legal team can shoulder some of that burden for you.
At Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP, we support you by:
- Investigating the cause of your construction head injury
- Collecting evidence and testimony to establish who is liable for your damages
- Completing and submitting paperwork related to your claim
- Handling negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf
- Taking your case to court if necessary
The role of an attorney in any personal injury case is ultimately to help those affected by negligence to achieve the best outcome possible. We strive for this by pursuing the full amount of financial compensation that you deserve for the damages you sustained.
Get Help With Your Construction Head Injury Claim
A grievous head injury can be difficult to overcome both personally and financially. However, you can find some peace of mind in knowing that you do not have to tackle the situation alone. Our team at Koonz, McKenney, Johnson & DePaolis, LLP, is passionate about achieving positive outcomes for those suffering from construction head injuries. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.