Injuries in the workplace are quite common in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistic, there were around 2.9 million nonfatal workplace injuries and illnesses reported in 2015 in the private sector. The number of public sector workers injured on the job was far less for the same year, with just over 750,000 in the US injured on the job. The good news for employers is that the number of nonfatal injuries are on the decline.
In the state of California, businesses that employ 10 or more workers must submit a list of any on the job fatalities, injuries, and illnesses each year. This is a way for the state to know just how many people have suffered injuries while working.
Although on the decline, injuries do occur, and when they do happen, those injured can experience a life-changing event. Some may even experience an amputation.
What is an Amputation Injury?
An amputation injury is a result of an accident that happens to workers in a catastrophic accident. Amputations can happen after a limb is crushed, broken, or partially severed. In the example of Steven Meier, he was working as a security guard when a forklift backed over him, crushing his leg. Meier’s injuries caused him to undergo 11 surgeries, and his leg below the knee was removed. Due to the surgeries, treatments, and loss of future earnings, a jury awarded Meier $17 million in compensation.
Common Causes of Amputations
There are several reasons a worker may need to undergo an amputation following an injury. These include:
- Machine accidents,
- Airline accidents,
- Work-based motor vehicle accidents,
- Slips and falls,
- Construction mishaps, and
- Medical malpractice.
Are You Entitled to Compensation?
Due to worker’s compensation laws, workers are unable to file a lawsuit against their employers. However, if a third party was the cause of the accident through negligence, then compensation can be granted. The compensatory damages that an injured person can receive are for:
- Medical expenses,
- Lost wages,
- Future income losses,
- Disfigurement,
- Becoming disabled,
- Pain and suffering, and
- A loss or major change of life.
When are Injuries Most Common?
According to studies, workplace injuries are most common when companies face a production requirement. The rush to produce more products or to do more than normal causes the added rush and carelessness of workers. A company’s workers are reportedly 5 – 15% more likely to get injured when the production and need to meet projected earnings are increased. This also causes management to overlook certain safety measure they normally would not, and injuries result.
Strassburg, Gilmore and Wei can Help
The law firm of Strassburg, Gilmore and Wei can provide you with legal guidance when it comes to catastrophic injury and wrongful death lawsuits. Located in Pasadena, California, Strassburg,
Gilmore and Wei, Attorneys at Law, is available to give you insight on difficult matters. Visit our webpage to see how we can help you. If you have any questions, contact us and let our experienced attorneys in catastrophic injury and wrongful death go to work for you.