In Pennsylvania, workplace amputations, particularly those involving limbs, fingers, and toes, remain a serious concern. Barring the instances that result in a fatality, these injuries are by far the most detrimental to a person’s physical, mental, and emotional health. Despite safeguards set in place to prevent critical injuries, workplace amputations remain a relatively common occurrence.
The most disheartening fact of all is that, unless they have an excellent Philadelphia, PA workplace amputation lawyer, injured workers are often left to fend for themselves in an inhospitable environment of the Workers’ Compensation System. This guide aims to make navigating the legal landscape a bit easier, by giving you essential info regarding work-related amputations in Pennsylvania and the US in general.
How many workplace amputations per year?
While specific statistics for Pennsylvania are not comprehensively detailed in public databases, broader data provides a context. In the United States, thousands of amputations occur annually due to work-related injuries, and machinery is often involved, accounting for a significant portion of these incidents. For example, machinery was involved in 58% of work-related amputations in 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What body part is most commonly amputated?
The most common amputated body parts in work-related incidents in the United States are parts of the hand, particularly fingers excluding the thumb. These partial-hand amputations account for a significant portion of all workplace amputation claims. The prevalence of these injuries is partly due to the frequent exposure of hands and fingers to dangerous machinery and equipment in various industries, especially in manufacturing where workers often interact with mechanically complex and high-risk machinery.
What benefits can you get for limb loss?
Pennsylvania has specific workers’ compensation guidelines for different types of amputations. For example, the compensation amounts and duration of benefits can vary; an arm or leg amputation might secure a higher compensation compared to fingers or toes, reflecting the greater impact on a worker’s capabilities and livelihood.
In terms of the average whole personal impairment and permanent disability associated with such injuries, these can vary widely based on the severity of the amputation and the part of the body affected. Workers’ compensation benefits in Pennsylvania are specific and structured to provide support depending on the type of injury.
For instance, the loss of a leg could result in compensation covering up to 410 weeks of disability benefits, highlighting the significant impact and long recovery period often associated with such severe injuries.
What are the new OSHA requirements for 2024?
These injuries not only affect the physical health of workers but also impose significant financial and emotional stress. Hence, it’s crucial for workplaces to adhere to safety regulations to prevent such severe injuries. Programs like the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) National Emphasis Program on Amputations aim to reduce these risks by focusing on industries with high incidences of amputations and ensuring that machinery is properly guarded.
Who’s the leading Philadelphia, PA workplace amputation lawyer near me?
For anyone dealing with or concerned about workplace amputations in Pennsylvania, understanding these regulations and available compensations is crucial. It is also advisable to consult with professionals or legal experts in workers’ compensation to navigate the complexities of these cases and ensure that all entitled benefits are received.
Fortunately, that’s exactly why Liberty Bell Workers’ Compensation and our specialist Attorney Gregg Boles are here for! Whether you wish to find out what your amputation case might be worth or need comprehensive assistance navigating both well-established and new facets of the work comp system, we are here to provide mindful, knowledgeable, and strategic guidance. Reach out to our offices near Dilworth Park to schedule your appointment!
