Claims for Repetitive Head Trauma in High-Risk Pittsburgh Workplaces
Roughly 11% of workers’ compensation claims (per the Pennsylvania Compensation Rating Bureau) in Pennsylvania are due to head injuries in high-risk workplaces such as construction and trucking. These claims result in time off work and high medical expenses. Many workers can’t afford the time off, leaving them with immense stress on top of an already difficult situation.
If you’re an employee in Pittsburgh with repetitive head injuries, keep reading to learn more about these types of claims. Or if you’re ready to talk, give us a call to discuss your case directly with a knowledgeable attorney.
What are repetitive head trauma injuries?
A repetitive head injury in the workplace is often due to a high-risk environment. These claims are often a result of:
- Slips and falls
- Fallen objects
- Vehicle accidents
- Incorrect machine operation
- Violence
Repetitive head injuries can cause short- and long-term damage. Immediately after an accident, many people experience the following:
- Dizziness
- Loss of consciousness
- Nausea
- Headaches
However, repetitive head injuries can result in long-term issues for some people. These can include:
- Cognitive impairment
- Mental health issues
- Vision issues
- Problems with the nervous system
Each individual is impacted differently by repeated head trauma. If you believe you have long-term symptoms from repetitive injuries, we encourage you to reach out to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys. Our team can explain the statute of limitations and notice requirements for repetitive head injuries.
Types of head trauma
There are several types of repetitive head injuries, including:
- Concussions
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Lacerations
- Contusions
- Fractures
Each of these injuries comes with a host of symptoms and long-term effects. At Carmody and Ging, we work closely with medical professionals to guide our clients through the workers’ compensation process.
Signs employees should recognize
Long-term effects of repeated head trauma aren’t always obvious. The more head injuries a person suffers from, the higher the chance of lasting symptoms. Some of the signs to watch for include the following:
- Memory loss
- Trouble thinking
- Behavioral changes, such as aggression or impulse control problems
- Mood changes (depression, anxiety, anger, instability, suicidal thoughts)
- Balance or walking issues
- Personality changes
These changes can happen quickly or progressively over time. It’s important to know what to look for when working in a high-risk environment. If any of this describes you, we hope you’ll reach out for a free consultation to discuss what options you have for your workers’ compensation claim.
Repetitive injury claims and workers’ compensation
The Pennsylvania Workers’ Compensation Act is extensive and outlines the liabilities employers are responsible for in the event of workplace injuries. Sometimes, claims are complex, and the injured worker needs help navigating the process.
As an injured worker, this can become overwhelming quickly. Employees must give notice of a work-related injury within 21 days to receive benefits back to the date of injury. Notice up to 120 days after injury may preserve the claim, but benefits will only begin from the date notice is given. If notice is not given within 120 days and the employer had no knowledge, the claim can be barred. The official workers’ compensation claim must be filed within three years from the date of the accident for most workplace injuries.
However, there are times when a third party may be responsible for repeat head injuries. Examples of this include defective manufacturer equipment and negligent subcontractors. In some cases, injured workers may be able to pursue civil claims against negligent third parties. These nuanced situations may impact workers’ compensation benefits.
Impact of head injuries on employees
Severe head injuries can make it impossible for employees to go back to work. Medical bills are expensive, and lost wages can cause intense financial strain on workers living paycheck to paycheck. The side effects of head trauma can make living difficult. When workers are faced with consistent dizziness, constant headaches, and other severe symptoms, daily living activities can be a struggle.
All of these factors can make recovery a challenging time. Changes in moods or personalities, the need for ongoing caregiving, and financial problems can strain relationships and cause added stressors to a healing individual. At Carmody and Ging, we help clients by relieving some of the stressors so they can focus on healing.
Types of benefits employees may be eligible for
In Pennsylvania, employers have workers’ compensation insurance that covers medical, lost wages, and death benefits.
Medical expenses
Medical expenses include reasonable expenses to treat the repetitive head injury, including diagnostics, therapy, and medications.
Lost wages
The state of Pennsylvania allows for approximately two-thirds of weekly wages, subject to maximum benefits and offsets, to be paid under workers’ compensation insurance. Wage benefits typically last while a worker is disabled. However, the duration and eligibility depend on the type of disability and medical findings in Pennsylvania.
Death benefits
Unfortunately, some workplace head traumas do result in death. In eligible cases, workers’ compensation pays benefits to the worker’s family. A knowledgeable attorney can help families manage these types of claims.
Is it time to get an attorney involved?
If you’re unsure of the benefits you’re entitled to, if your injury is covered, or if you think a third party may actually be responsible, we suggest you speak to a head injury lawyer who may be able to help you with the process.
Workers’ compensation repeat claims can get complicated quickly. An experienced attorney helps clients through the process while minimizing the stress they feel. At Carmody and Ging, our team has proactively helped clients with workers’ compensation claims due to repetitive injuries.
Carmody and Ging: Head injury lawyers in Pennsylvania
At Carmody and Ging, Injury & Accident Lawyers, we guide clients through the workers’ compensation process from beginning to end. Our attorneys offer legal knowledge, ongoing claim support, and legal guidance. Our team negotiates with insurance providers, manages information gathering with medical providers, and handles denials or appeals.
Contact Carmody and Ging today for a free consultation
The head injury attorneys at Carmody and Ging strive to help clients with repetitive claims through dedicated support and legal knowledge. We encourage you to call us today or fill out our form to request a free consultation.