Illinois Worker Suffers Hand Injury After Machinery Incident at Foundry

Illinois has seen yet another industrial accident, and Central Illinois Proud reports that a worker is now recovering from a severe hand injury after an incident at a foundry. While officials have described the incident as “non-life-threatening,” this worker may face permanent disability and a significant loss of income for the rest of their life. If you find yourself in this situation, consider contacting an experienced workers’ comp lawyer in Illinois.

Hand “Came Into Contact” With Machinery

Local officials were relatively tight-lipped about the circumstances of this accident. However, we do know that the worker’s hand “came into contact” with machinery at some point during their shift, and the resulting injury was bad enough to warrant the immediate hospitalization of the worker.

Officials also noted that the injury was not life-threatening, which gives the impression of a light injury. However, it is important to understand that non-life-threatening does not necessarily mean non-life-altering. For all we know, the worker may have had their hand completely amputated. The bones could have been completely shattered. Perhaps ligaments inside the hand were severed.

Many people, including reporters and safety officials, often focus on whether or not a worker has survived their accident. Fatality statistics are important, and the worker in question is undoubtedly lucky to be alive. However, we should not measure overall workplace safety solely by workplace fatalities. There are many other metrics to consider, including permanent disabilities.

Unfortunately, the media only captures the public’s attention for a brief moment, just enough for the average reader to learn that a worker has survived their injuries. Journalists never again return to the worker for an update, and their recovery process falls under the radar. While people move on to the next big headline, these workers may face lifelong disabilities and a serious drop in their earning capacity.

How Much Compensation Can I Get for a Machinery Hand Injury in Illinois?

A serious hand injury can result in significant compensation, especially after an amputation or permanent disability. If you can no longer use your hand to earn income, you may receive compensation based on a predetermined formula and a “disability rating.” Speak with your workers’ compensation lawyer to learn how much a severely injured or amputated hand may be worth under Illinois workers’ comp laws.

Even if you still have the use of your hand, you should receive compensation for all the income you miss while you recover. You should also gain access to the medical treatment you need, including hand surgeries and other specialized medical care.

Can a Workers’ Comp Lawyer in Illinois Help Me?

A workers’ comp lawyer in Illinois may be able to help if you’re searching for answers after a debilitating hand injury. Although you don’t need a lawyer to file a workers’ comp claim or report your injury to your employer, it is important to understand that legal resources are available if you ever need help. Contact Connolly Injury Law today to learn more about the next steps.

Sources: 

centralillinoisproud.com/news/local-news/worker-injured-caterpillar-foundry/

yahoo.com/news/articles/non-life-threatening-injury-caterpillar-203927729.html