Michigan workers comp lawyer explains how an amputation is covered and what benefits are available under the law.
An amputation is one of the most serious injuries that can happen at work. These are life changing events and often result in permanent disability.
Workers comp should pay for all reasonable and necessary medical treatment. Wage loss benefits should also be provided under two separate provisions of the workers comp law.
Specific loss under Michigan workers comp law
Michigan law provides a schedule for specific loss benefits. This is the minimum number of weeks that you will receive compensation regardless of whether you can work or not.
(a) Thumb, 65 weeks. (g) A toe other than the great toe, 11 weeks.
(b) First finger, 38 weeks. (h) Hand, 215 weeks.
(c) Second finger, 33 weeks. (i) Arm, 269 weeks.
(d) Third finger, 22 weeks. (j) Foot, 162 weeks.
(e) Fourth finger, 16 weeks. (k) Leg, 215 weeks.
(f) Great toe, 33 weeks. (l) Eye, 162 weeks.
General disability under Michigan workers comp law
Many people experience chronic pain and are given permanent restrictions after an amputation. It is also common to see symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder. These problems often prevent a normal return to work.
An individual may be entitled to additional wage loss benefits if he or she is still disabled after the specific loss period ends. The test is whether the amputation prevents a person from doing other work within his or her qualifications and training that would pay maximum pre-injury wages.
Many employers and insurance companies will pay benefits for a specific loss and not tell the injured employee about the general disability provision in the workers comp law.
Help is available
We see so many individuals who are paid at the wrong rate or have their benefits stopped too soon. It is important to speak with an experienced workers comp lawyer after any amputation at work.
To speak with one of our workers comp lawyers, call (855) 221-2667 for a free consultation. There is no fee unless workers comp benefits are recovered for you.
– Alex Berman is the founder of Michigan Workers Comp Lawyers. Hes been representing injured and disabled workers exclusively for more than 35 years. Alex has helped countless people obtain workers comp benefits and never charges a fee to review a case.
Related information:
Video: Injured at work? Advice from a Michigan workers comp lawyer
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