Why do so many construction workers suffer TBIs?

If you work construction in North Carolina, no one need tell you that you face a constant risk of falling since your job often requires you to do your work on roofs, scaffolding and/or tall ladders. And as the Mayo Clinic explains, falls represent the biggest cause of traumatic brain injuries.

A TBI is not a mere “bump on your head.” Rather it constitutes a serious injury brought about when your fall causes your head to significantly impact against the ground, a floor, or any other hard surface. This impact, in turn, causes your brain to “slosh around” inside your skull. The resulting injuries to its delicate nerves and tissues cause your brain to begin malfunctioning in one or more ways.

Unfortunately, your risk of receiving a TBI in a fall increases the older you become and the longer you work construction. It also increases if you work for a small construction company employing 25 or fewer workers.

TBI symptoms

Keep in mind that no two TBIs are exactly the same. Consequently, the symptoms you experience may be vastly different from those of someone else who suffered the same type of injury. In addition, you may not exhibit any immediate symptoms. One of the most frightening aspects of a TBI is that it may take hours, days or even weeks before your symptoms appear. Consequently, never assume you did not receive a TBI in your fall just because you feel fine. Seek immediate medical treatment. This is an emergency situation that you need to take seriously.

In general, you should be alert for any of the following TBI symptoms you experience in the month following your fall:

• Difficulties with your vision
• Difficulties with your hearing
• Difficulties with your speech
• Difficulties with your balance or coordination
• Difficulties with your ability to think and/or remember

Also, be on the lookout for changes in your personality and/or your behavior. TBI victims often exhibit increased levels of anger, frustration, anxiety, depression and/or fear. They also become uncooperative with other people’s attempts to help them, especially family members.

This is general educational information and not intended to provide legal advice