Work-Related Brain Injuries: Your Reality & Recovery
In the modern workforce, the toll of work-related injuries extends far beyond physical pain. Among the most devastating of these injuries are traumatic brain injuries (TBI), which can completely alter a person’s life. Whether it's a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, the consequences can be catastrophic, leaving workers confused, overwhelmed, and unsure of their future.
This is not just about the injury itself; it’s about what follows — a loss of income, a shrinking ability to carry out daily tasks, and the mounting burden of bills. In such a scenario, the question becomes: How does one overcome this uncertainty?
The answer, while not simple, lies in understanding your rights and seeking the legal assistance you deserve. To that end, Schwartzapfel Lawyers is here to fight for those rights and get you all the money and benefits you're entitled to under the law.
And so, if you or someone you love has suffered a work-related TBI, it's time to take action. Your future is at stake. To protect it, call us now at 516-342-2200 or continue reading below.
Brain Trauma By The Numbers
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines traumatic brain injury (TBI) as "a disruption in the normal function of the brain that can be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or penetrating head injury."
In the workplace, common causes of TBI include slips, trips and falls, falling objects, and motor vehicle accidents. Though the fatalities linked to brain injuries may seem less frequent than other causes of death, the numbers are still alarming: approximately 55,000 deaths annually in the U.S. But this is just one part of the picture. Millions more are treated for work-related TBIs every year, taking an unquantifiable toll on families, livelihoods, and productivity.
Common Causes Of Work-Related Brain Injuries In NYC
In a city like New York, where the skyline is defined by towering construction projects and bustling streets, the risks are considerable.
In point of fact, work-related brain injuries here can stem from a variety of factors, including but not limited to:
1. Falls from any height — Whether from a height of 100 feet or just a few inches, falls are among the leading causes of TBIs. And it's not just the extreme heights that pose a danger; even simple missteps can result in severe injuries or death.
2. Falling objects — In construction zones or even in office environments, objects falling from heights can lead to catastrophic consequences. The law protects you, and if you are injured in such an incident, you are entitled to financial compensation for your losses.
3. Slip, trip, and fall accidents — This often occurs when the environment is poorly maintained. Cracked sidewalks, icy steps, or neglected debris in high-traffic areas create hazards that too often lead to serious injuries, and even death in some cases.
4. Motor vehicle crashes — A significant contributor to TBIs, car, truck, and motorcycle accidents can happen at any speed. Whether it's a crash on a highway or a fender bender in a parking lot, the impact on the brain can be devastating.
5. Inadequate safety equipment — In New York State, virtually all employers are legally required to provide proper protective gear. What's more, under New York's Labor Law § 240(1), the failure to do so constitutes negligence, which can result in significant fines and penalties for the employer.
Conclusion
Time is absolutely critical when dealing with work-related injuries, especially TBIs, as delays can jeopardize your access to vital compensation and benefits. As such, it is of the utmost important to act quickly and speak with an experienced personal injury attorney to start recovering before it's too late.
At Schwartzapfel Lawyers, we're dedicated to fighting for your rights and getting you all the money and benefits you deserve so that you can focus on what's most important — your recovery.
And so, if you or a loved one has suffered a brain injury either at work or while in the performance of work-related duties, act now and dial 516-342-2200 for a free consultation with one of our award-winning NYC TBI attorneys today.