Workplace Accidents that Cause Amputations

Monday, October 7, 2019

Workplace Accidents that Cause Amputations

Written by Malman Law, reviewed by Steve J. Malman.

Accidents on the job can result in a wide range of injuries. Some injuries may be treated so they heal relatively quickly, while other injuries can completely alter your life. One injury that can affect almost every aspect of your work, personal life, and recreational activities is an amputation of a body part. Commonly amputated parts include digits, extremities, limbs, ears, and more. 

Reports indicate that about one in 20,000 workers in the United States are affected by work-related amputations. This is a high number given the severity of this type of accident and injury. Certain injuries present an even higher risk of amputations, including manufacturing, construction, and agriculture. 

Some common causes of amputations at work include:

• Lack of safeguards on machinery
• Power tool accidents
• Getting pinned or crushed by materials
• Malfunctioning mechanical equipment
• Explosions or demolition accidents

When any of the above causes an amputation, the injured worker should get emergency transport in an ambulance to the nearest hospital. Amputations require emergency trauma care, and in some cases, the body part can be surgically reattached. Even if reattachment is possible, the recovery process can be long, and the future use of that body part can be limited. 

If a body part cannot be reattached, doctors must take the proper measures to prevent infection of the wound. You might have to spend some time in the hospital and may require surgical procedures. You will then have to adjust to life without your amputated part, which can be difficult. Even with cutting-edge prosthetics, you will likely need to relearn many tasks. If you choose a prosthesis, it can be costly and will need to be replaced every few years. 

Workers’ Compensation Benefits in Chicago

There is no doubt that medical bills following amputation can be overwhelming. In addition, amputations might prevent you from returning to your job for weeks or months, or might keep you from ever working again. It is important to speak to an experienced attorney to help with your workers’ compensation claim. We regularly seek workers’ compensation benefits for the following and more:

• Medical care 
• Lost wages
• Permanent partial disability
• Permanent total disability

Under the law, it does not matter if your employer was negligent or not, as you deserve benefits for workplace injuries regardless of fault. If a third party was negligent and caused your accident, such as a machinery manufacturer, you might be able to hold that party accountable for your losses, as well. An attorney can identify all possible sources of compensation in your situation. 

Contact a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for Assistance Today

The Chicago accident and injury lawyers at Malman Law have worked with clients with catastrophic injuries such as amputations. We know your losses can be extensive and that your life will never be the same. Our goal is to obtain the full amount of workers’ compensation benefits or third-party compensation that you deserve for your permanent, life-changing injuries. Call (312) 629-0099 or contact us online for a free case evaluation.