What damages can you seek if you lose a limb at work?

Losing a limb can be devastating. Depending on its severity and nature, your independence can be greatly impacted. This, in turn, can impact your ability to work and provide for yourself and your dependents. 

If a workplace accident leads to amputation, you may be eligible for financial restitution through your employer-funded workers’ compensation program. The settlement amount will often be determined by factors such as the severity of your injuries, the medical and rehabilitation costs as well as the long-term care that you will need. 

Hazardous situations that lead to amputations in the workplace

A number of workplace accidents can lead to limb loss. Depending on the nature of your workplace, here are workplace situations that can lead to an amputation-causing accident:

• Failing to use the right personal protective equipment.

• Use of malfunctioning equipment

• Lack of training on workplace safety

These situations can lead to accidents like falls from elevated points, serious crashes or severe cuts. 

Compensation for amputation

An amputation will definitely require proper medical care, and this can run to tens of thousands of dollars. Alongside your medical expenses, here are some of the damages you may seek following an amputation:

Pain and suffering – ongoing physical and emotional anguish that results from limb loss can greatly impact the quality of your life. 

Lost income – if you are unable to return to your current role or find work after an amputation, then you may sue for lost income as well. The same applies if you spend time off work to recuperate. 

Emotional anguish – a major amputation will potentially lead to emotional anguish. You can fight to get compensated for this too.

Protecting your interests

Of course, no amount of compensation can bring your limb back. If you lose a limb while at work, you need to file  a workers’ compensation claim.