How do head injuries happen in the workplace? Let me count the ways. Motor vehicle accidents, falls from heights, slips and falls, falling objects, and assaults can all cause of serious head injuries at work.
Even if you don’t actually hit your head on something, your brain could be shaken enough inside your skull to cause a concussion.
After these kinds of incidents, report the accident to your employer and be evaluated
by a doctor to determine if you suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI).
If you're diagnosed with a concussion, you may be ordered by your doctor to take it easy for a while. Workers' comp should cover the cost of medical testing and treatment and time off work, and your employer may be required to offer you modified work to accommodate your doctor’s orders.
Treatment for Post-Concussion Syndrome
A concussion is considered a less serious type of TBI, but recent research shows that if you don’t allow the injury to heal completely, another jolt or blow to the head could cause permanent brain damage. That's why it's so important for you to get a proper diagnosis and to follow the doctor’s instructions. If symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and sensitivity to noise and light last longer than two weeks, you may be diagnosed with post-concussion syndrome.
Often, patients with this condition are told to:
- Avoid driving, heavy lifting, working with machinery, or working from heights
- Reduce cognitive exertion, such as reading, working on a computer, and problem-solving
- Avoid sunlight or bright interior lights
- Be in a quiet, low-stress environment
- Rest frequently
Activity may be restricted for a few days or several weeks, depending on the severity of the concussion.
Your Rights When You've Suffered a Concussion at Work
Depending on your job, it may be impossible to return to work with post-concussion syndrome. If your employer can offer limited hours, frequent breaks, and a calm, quiet workspace, you may have to accept this modified work. You may qualify for wage loss compensation if you lose income working restricted hours or at a lower pay rate.
However, if it cannot meet these requirements and you have to miss several weeks of work, you should qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.
Knocked Your Noggin at Work? Call Me!
It's difficult to get the workers’ comp benefits to which you're entitled when you suffer a concussion at work. Because there may be no obvious signs of the injury, some employers don’t take concussions seriously. I've helped many Ohio workers with head injuries get the time off, treatment and financial compensation they deserved after a workplace head injury, and I can help you, too.
Learn more about Ohio workers’ comp by requesting a free download of my book, The Worker’s Guide to Injury Compensation in Ohio. Then, call me to learn more about what I can do for you.
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