Employers are obligated to provide a safe work environment for their employees to prevent them from sustaining avoidable injuries. Unfortunately, not all employers take this responsibility seriously and, as a result, workers are harmed. Some of the most common accidents that occur in the workplace lead to brain injuries, which can be mild or incredibly severe and life-altering. Whether you work in an environment that appears to be inherently dangerous or in an office that seems relatively safe, you might be at risk for a traumatic brain injury.
Falls in the Workplace
Falls are among the most common causes of brain injuries in the workplace. Many of the hazards that cause falls in the workplace tend to involve carelessness or negligence. For example, poor housekeeping can make even the most innocuous work environment a disaster waiting to happen. In addition to poor housekeeping, such as spills that are not effectively addressed, other hazards include randomly placed objects that could cause one to trip. These hazards are of particular concern to the growing number of individuals who continue to work beyond the age of 65, making up a significant part of today’s workforce.
Dangerous Occupations
Of course, as previously mentioned, anyone can sustain a brain injury in any occupation and environment, but some jobs are more dangerous than others. For those employed in any of the following occupations, it would be wise to exercise more caution:
- Construction
- Emergency medical services
- Transportation
- Fishing
- Forestry
- Agriculture
If you sustain a head injury on the job that was caused by the negligence of an employer and his or her failure to provide a safe environment, you must contact a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible to ensure the claims process goes smoothly and you receive the benefits to which you are entitled.
Precaution and Prevention in the Workplace
Every industry has its own unique hazards and dangers that can potentially lead to accidents that cause brain injuries. Some potential brain injury hazards in dangerous occupations include truck accidents, machinery accidents, falling objects, and exposure to toxic chemicals. If your occupation involves working with dangerous equipment or any other potential hazard, you are entitled to insist that your employer provide the appropriate personal protective equipment you need to stay safe. You also have the right to report any potential hazards you see to your supervisor.
If you received a blow to the head, even if it appeared to be a minor bump, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible for a thorough examination. Oftentimes, these injuries do not produce immediate symptoms, but can develop over time. If you put off going to a doctor, it could harm your claim later on, so report the incident immediately and visit an approved doctor. Your workers’ compensation attorney will be able to answer any questions you have along the way and ensure you are meeting all necessary requirements and deadlines.
Workers’ Compensation Attorney in Sacramento
If you were injured while at work, your employer should provide the workers’ compensation benefits to which you are entitled. Unfortunately, many often try to dispute these claims, which is why you will need to have a workers’ compensation attorney early on in your case to protect your rights. At Smolich and Smolich we are prepared to vigilantly fight on your behalf.
No matter how complex your case might be or what questions you might have about the process, rest assured that we will provide the advice, answers, and clarity you need during this undoubtedly difficult time.
Call us at (888) 452-0703 to schedule a free initial consultation with one of our Northern California workers’ compensation attorneys. You do not have to go through this alone!