One of the most common types of workplace injuries is fall accidents, also often collectively referred to as slips, trips and falls. What makes this type of workplace injury particularly pernicious is that it can happen in almost any industry at almost any time. Workers in the industrial, construction, and manufacturing sectors are often at a higher risk of suffering a fall accident due to the nature of their jobs, and they are also severely injured from fall accidents at higher rates since they may fall from a greater height or onto a more hazardous environment. However, workplace falls can and do injure office workers, retail workers, and those in the business sector. In fact it is estimated that 1 in 6 workplace injuries that require time off for recuperation are a result of workplace falls. Let’s take a look at some of the injuries often associated with workplace falls.
TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURIES (TBI)
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) occur when an external force causes dysfunction of the brain. This could occur due to any type of head injury. Falls from a significant height, especially onto a hard surface or onto something that penetrates the skull, are particularly dangerous and prone to resulting in traumatic brain injury. Depending on the part of the brain affected, traumatic brain injuries can result in a host of serious dysfunctions. The victim may be paralyzed, have difficulty with speech or vision, suffer fine or gross motor impairment, experience memory loss and learning difficulties, or have trouble regulating emotions.
With quality medical treatment and prompt care, it is sometimes possible for the victims of TBIs to see an improvement of their condition, but all too often the damage is permanent and does not respond to treatment. One thing is certain, whether the patient is receiving rigorous medical care for rehabilitation purposes, life-saving treatment, or on-going care from a nurse or home health professional, TBIs are an extremely expensive condition to battle. This makes it very important for victims and their families to protect their legal rights if they or a loved one suffers a TBI.
FRACTURES AND BROKEN BONES
Workplace falls may result in a host of fractures and broken bones including but not limited to:
- Hip Fractures
- Broken Bones in the Hands and Feet
- Breaks to the Forearm, Upper Arm, or Shoulder
- Spinal Injuries
- Pelvis Fractures
- Broken Legs
- Cracked Ribs
Such injuries can range in severity from painful, short-term hindrances, to long-term health complications requiring multiple surgeries and resulting in chronic pain. They interrupt daily life and may make it impossible for the victim to work or perform routine activities. This can result in a loss of income and the necessity of paying for expensive care and services, in addition to the medical bills likely to be incurred from these breaks and fractures. If you broke bone in a workplace fall make sure to contact an experienced personal injury attorney to discuss your legal options.
WRONGFUL DEATH
Tragically, some workplace falls prove fatal. Victims of deadly falls may die immediately on impact or they might succumb to their injuries gradually over time. Wrongful deaths due to workplace falls leave families reeling to pick up the emotional and financial pieces caused by their loved one’s death. No amount of litigation can bring the person back or undo the anguish caused by their passing. However, wrongful death lawsuits can help families relieve some of the financial burden caused by the loss. Spouses and children of wrongful death victims may be able to sue for lost income, direct expenses, loss of companionship and emotional care, and even loss of future inheritance.
Dugas Law Firm is committed to fighting for the rights of workplace fall victims and their families. Whether you or your loved one has suffered a traumatic brain injury, broken bones, or a wrongful death it is imperative that you protect your legal rights. Remember that lawsuits must be filed within the statute of limitations which is generally two years for Texas residents. Please contact Dugas Law Firm to discuss the details of your case.