If you crush your hand while operating heavy machinery on the job, you may be concerned about what to do next. If your injury leaves you unable to work, can you afford to support and take care of your family? What about your hand? Will you be able to get the medical care you need? Workers’ compensation is available and can help you get the assistance you may need, if you file a claim. The Basics of Workers’ Compensation Workers’ compensation insurance policies are required by each state. Most employers are mandated to provide it for their employees. It’s a safety net that is put in place to protect injured employees. This is provided at no cost to workers. If your hand is crushed as a result of operating heavy machinery on the job, you will need immediate emergency medical attention – call 911. Your supervisor should be immediately notified. Once you have dealt with the emergency medical, you should consider filing a workers’ compensation claim. It can help pay for your medical care, surgery, lab work, medical equipment, therapy, prescriptions, and follow-up appointments related to your on the job injury. Another benefit of workers’ compensation is that you may be provided with a portion of your lost wages if you are unable to work. There are workers’ compensation guidelines in place that can assist you with temporary or permanent disability compensation. Crushed Hand While Operating Heavy Machinery A hand crushed by heavy machinery may not only break the bones or dislocate joints; it can cause severe damage to your fingers, tissues, muscles, and veins. You may temporarily or even permanently lose the function or use of your hand. Often, a crushed hand may require extensive surgery or even amputation. These surgeries can be very expensive and require a specialist. In these cases, workers who sustain such a severe injury may not be able to work. Workers’ compensation can give you access to medical care and other potential benefits if it is determined that you meet their guidelines. Benefits of Worker’s Compensation If you have a crushed hand as a result of operating heavy machinery, workers’ compensation may provide you with several benefits that can help you. It may help with medical expenses that may include medicine, skin graft, therapy, surgeries, prosthetics, and other necessary medical treatment. Lost wages. You may be left unable to work because of a crushed hand. You may be able to receive a portion of your lost wages. You may also qualify for temporary or permanent disability payments, depending on workers’ compensation guidelines in your state. Occupational training. If you are unable to continue working in your field due to your injury, you may qualify for occupational training through workers’ compensation. It can help you to develop valuable skills in a new field. Get Legal Help If your hand is crushed by heavy mechanical machinery while on the job, you should consider speaking an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. You have rights, and an attorney can answer any questions you may have. Do not sign any documents without consulting a lawyer. You may sign your rights away without even knowing it. Additional Resources Del Monte Foods
