Traumatic Brain Injuries in Nevada Workers’ Compensation Cases

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are among the most serious consequences of work-related accidents. But you are not alone when this happens. Nevada’s workers’ compensation system supports employees who suffer TBIs at work. You must understand the intricacies of TBIs in the workplace to navigate the workers’ compensation process effectively.

What Is a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

A TBI is a serious injury that results from a sudden blow or jolt to the head or body, causing the brain to move rapidly within the skull. TBIs can range from mild to severe and may have long-lasting or permanent effects. Consequently, you can obtain workers’ compensation benefits if the injury occurs in a job-related activity.

Common Causes of TBIs in the Workplace

There is a high incidence of traumatic brain injuries following common workplace accidents. Among the most frequent are:

• Falls: Falls are among the main causes of workplace TBIs. Surfaces that are uneven, slippery floors, and insufficient safety measures can all lead to these types of accidents.
• Vehicle Accidents: Drivers and construction workers who operate vehicles have a high risk of sustaining TBIs from collisions or crashes. This also includes workers who make deliveries or run an errand as part of their employment.
• Falls from Above: Falling objects or equipment can cause head injuries in various industries, including construction and manufacturing.
• Machinery Accidents: Using heavy machinery and equipment is dangerous; accidents involving this equipment can result in head injuries.

Symptoms of Traumatic Brain Injury

Sometimes, a worker is unaware of the seriousness of what appears to be a head injury. In addition, symptoms may not appear until hours or even days after the injury. An example of this is a subdural hematoma, where in some cases, blood can slowly pool between the protective membranes layered over the brain. As it grows, the blood concentration puts pressure on the brain, causing traumatic brain injury symptoms. 

Some common symptoms are:

• Headaches: Frequent and severe headaches are a common symptom of TBIs.
• Memory Problems: Difficulty recalling recent events or information can be an early sign.
• Dizziness: A feeling of lightheadedness or loss of balance may occur.
• Nausea: Persistent feelings of nausea or vomiting can be TBI-related.
• Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or sleep disturbances may indicate a TBI.
• Sensory Changes: Changes in vision, such as blurred vision or ringing in the ears, are common.
• Mood Swings: Sudden mood swings or changes in behavior may be evident.
• Concentration Difficulties: Difficulty focusing, making decisions, or organizing thoughts can be symptoms of a TBI.

Workers’ Compensation in TBI Cases

Workers’ compensation aims to support injured employees financially and provide the ability to receive medical care when they are hurt on the job. Some examples of this support are:

• Medical Coverage: Workers’ compensation usually covers hospitalization, surgery, therapy, and medication costs associated with TBI.
• Wage Replacement: Workers’ compensation can provide wage replacement benefits if a TBI prevents a worker from working temporarily or permanently.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: For workers who cannot return to their previous occupation after a TBI, vocational rehabilitation programs may be available to help them acquire new skills.
• Disability Benefits: A worker may qualify for temporary or permanent disability benefits after sustaining a traumatic brain injury that impacts their ability to work.
• Death Benefits: If a worker dies due to a work-related head injury, their family may file for death benefits.

How a Workers’ Compensation Legal Advocate Can Help

A workers’ comp lawyer can help you navigate the complex filing process, including meeting deadlines. If the board denies your initial application for benefits, an attorney can prepare an appeal. They also are available to answer insurers’ and the workers’ compensation board’s questions.

Jay Short – Workers’ Compensation Lawyer in Nevada

If you have been injured on the job or while conducting business on behalf of your employer, Jay Short, Attorney at Law, can help you. Workers’ comp is our sole focus, and our mission is to protect workers and obtain fair compensation so they can concentrate on moving forward. If you have any questions about your case, please do not hesitate to contact us 24/7 at (775) 786-2006. We can also be contacted online.

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