The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported through its Web-based Injury Statistics Query and Reporting System (WISQARS) that traumatic brain injuries (TBI) were responsible for 5,944 provisional deaths.
Working on or beneath water isn't always safe. The task is often perilous and hard, and the shifting conditions of the seas make it even harder. One of the scariest things that can happen on this job is getting a TBI.
Falls, accidents involving big objects, or blows to the head are some of the causes of TBIs. A TBI can greatly alter your memory, work skills, and even your attitude.
Let us learn the steps you can take if you or someone you love is hurt on the job and how a traumatic brain injury lawyer can help you get the compensation you need.
Causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries in Maritime Environments
It is important to clearly understand the causes of TBIs when it comes to one’s safety in the maritime environment. A range of factors can contribute to TBIs occurring on water.
Slick decks and unstable landing areas are likely to cause accidental falls, which can result in TBIs. Collision with an object like equipment or cargo can also lead to a potentially serious head injury. Getting hit by a load that is swinging or an item that is falling can increase the risk of TBI among maritime workers.
Bad weather or limited vision can contribute to an increased risk of TBI. You are exposed to more danger if you don't have the right safety training or gear.
According to maritime accident lawyer Peyton Murphy, victims of maritime accidents can sustain severe injuries, such as concussions and broken bones, resulting in costly treatment and altering the quality of their lives.
Common Symptoms and Diagnosis of TBIs
How can you tell if someone has TBI? Some of the most common indicators are headaches, feeling dizzy, getting disoriented, and forgetting things. Some people could remark they feel strange, can't concentrate, or are more likely to trip and fall.
TBI symptoms can occur rapidly or take up to an hour before showing up. You need to be vigilant when dealing with a TBI case.
The doctor will look at one’s symptoms, medical history, and how well they can explain what happened if they suspect that someone has a TBI. They will also do a number of physical checks and imaging tests on the person.
Go see a doctor right away if you think you have a TBI. Early action can help address the symptoms and prevent matters from becoming worse.
Long-Term Effects of TBIs on Affected Workers
A TBI can make life very hard for a long time, but many people get better fast.
TBI can compromise your decision-making abilities by making it difficult to maintain focus. These problems would lower the productivity of a worker and might even cause unnecessary conflicts in the workplace.
Changes in mood can also happen, making anxiety, despair, or anything else that makes it hard to deal with daily pressures worse.
Headaches or fatigue that come from physical problems might make it hard for a worker to do their job. Victims of TBI might have a hard time returning to their previous work or venturing out to new opportunities.
Understanding these kinds of possible long-term impacts might help in searching for the proper support and resources needed to help you regain normalcy after a TBI.
Legal Rights and Protections for Injured Maritime Workers
Injured maritime workers enjoy a range of legal rights and protections that allow them to receive all possible forms of support post-accident. If your employer is careless and you get hurt, you can sue them for damages under the Jones Act. You have the right to seek damages for the money you lost, medical bills and other related expenses, and your agony and suffering.
The Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act helps workers in the maritime industry. This law provides payments for medical treatment and disability compensation.
Report your injuries right away, and get recommendations for properly negotiating the complicated regulations. Understanding your rights guarantees that you receive the necessary benefits to aid your recovery from a traumatic brain injury.
Importance of Safety Protocols in Preventing TBIs
Safety measures must be observed to prevent traumatic brain disorders. If need be, all hazardous activities should have an intervention for safety so as to minimize the chances of TBI.
If you suspect a hazard, always wear safety headgear and encourage your colleagues to follow suit. Keep everyone abreast about hazards through regular refresher training on safety procedures.
Conduct periodic inspections of tools for hazards. Analyze your work areas for hazardous conditions.
If somebody sees a danger, conduct a discussion about it. See to it that the process for reporting an unsafe situation is easy and comfortable for everyone.
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