Stephen Hasner | Workers' Compensation | January 16, 2018
Every year, accidental amputations rank among the nation’s most potentially devastating workplace injuries. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration calls workplace amputations “widespread,” finding that amputations occur most frequently among employees who work at printing presses, conveyors, drill presses, milling machines, food slicers, meat grinders, and other hazardous machines. In addition to the routine hazards of operating such machinery, set up, preparation, and maintenance of these machines pose serious amputation risks.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, thousands of non-fatal workplace amputations take place every year. Defective machinery and workplace negligence are among the leading causes of on-the-job amputation injuries. Improperly maintained heavy machinery or poorly manufactured heavy machinery may result in employees suffering serious injuries, including amputations. Improper employee training and supervision also increase the chance of severe accidental injuries. Defective manufacture, improper maintenance, and inadequate or improper training all can factor into the total amount of damages under a workers’ compensation claim.
Workers’ Compensation Damages Workplace Amputations Can Vary
The amount of damages you can recover under Georgia workers’ compensation law varies. Georgia provides differing levels of compensation depending upon the severity of the injury, even among amputation injuries. Obviously, losing a finger or part of a finger is completely different from losing a hand, an arm, or a leg. Georgia law considers most workplace amputation injuries catastrophic.
This has consequences for the amount an injured employee can recover in damages. A catastrophic injury might prevent an employee from returning to work—either to a previous job or any kind of job. This means that under Georgia law, a worker who loses a limb in a workplace accident could qualify for income and medical benefits for an indefinite period of time, potentially for life.
Obviously, the law addresses generalities. Not every workplace injury claim is the same, even for serious injuries. Circumstances differ, and as a result, so will the available damages. Given that, rather than simply accepting what the state workers’ compensation system offers at first, consider retaining competent legal counsel to assist you. You may have grounds for more compensation, depending upon your circumstances. Trying to make that determination on your own without experience handling this type of claim could put you in a situation where you might not reach the best outcome.
Contact the Atlanta Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Hasner Law PC For Help
If you suffer an injury at work in the Savannah area that results in an amputation, explore your compensation options by taking advantage of a free case evaluation. An attorney may help maximize your compensation for your injuries. The attorneys at Hasner Law can help.
For more information, please contact the Atlanta workers’ compensation law firm of Hasner Law P.C. at our nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve in Fulton County, Chatham County, and its surrounding areas:
Hasner Law PC – Atlanta Law Office
2839 Paces Ferry Rd SE #1050
Atlanta, GA 30339
(678) 888-4878
Hasner Law PC – Savannah Law Office
221 W York St
Savannah, GA 31401
(912) 234-2334
