Unfortunately, suffering head injuries can be one of the most devastating reasons that employees need workers’ compensation. Head injuries have major consequences for many, and the symptoms may lead to trouble getting benefits too.
How Can You Get Head Injuries at Work?
There are many ways for workers to get head injuries at work. These injuries can range from minor bumps on the head to full-on trauma. Workers may suffer injuries in a fall, hit their heads, get hit in the head, or have other accidents. The head injuries that result may include:
- Cuts and bruises
- Concussion
- TBI
- Facial injuries
- Neck and spine injuries
Concussions and TBIs are particularly dangerous because you might have them without knowing it. A hard bump on the head might lead to temporary dizziness that quickly subsides. But the bump could cause long-lasting effects such as short-term memory loss or difficulty concentrating.
Workers’ Compensation for Head Injuries in Minnesota
Workers’ compensation benefits are available for Minnesota employees with head injuries. People who suffer head injuries may need long-term care, which could include both physical care and help from psychologists or psychiatrists. Medical treatment for TBIs, concussions, and other injuries is very expensive. Fortunately, workers’ comp benefits will pay for medical costs related to work injuries.
Depending on the severity of a head injury, an injured worker may not have the ability to return to work for a long time or ever. Workers’ comp also provides wage loss benefits, including payments to workers who cannot go back to their old jobs. If a worker is able, he or she could look for a new job or retrain for a different industry using vocational rehabilitation benefits.
Since the effects of head injuries can be subtle and long-lasting, insurance companies may try to deny claims altogether or deny requests for specific medical treatments. Workers with head injuries could have difficulties advocating for themselves when the insurance companies deny benefits. As a result, these workers or their relatives may want to speak to a knowledgeable local workers’ compensation lawyer for help. With an advocate on their side, a head injury won’t be a barrier to getting needed benefits.
Need help getting workers’ compensation for your injury? Joe Osterbauer, Esq. and the Osterbauer Law Firm stand up for injured Minnesota workers’ rights. Joe’s 27 years of workers’ compensation experience and his team’s speedy service combine to get clients the results they need. To schedule a free consultation, visit Osterbauer Law Firm online or call Joe’s office at (612) 334-3434.
