While every job has the potential to expose its workers to the risk of occupational injuries, there are some industries in which individuals are considerably more likely to suffer severe physical trauma. The construction industry is notable for the variety of dangers that can be found on most jobsites and the likelihood that even a highly skilled laborer could receive devastating injuries during the course of executing his or her work-related duties. Though any workplace injury can disrupt a person’s ability to work at full capacity and might interfere with one or more aspects of a worker’s life for a period of time, the consequences of amputation injuries are apt to be especially problematic.

In the wake of an amputation caused by a workplace accident, an employer may be inclined to emphasize that this was merely a hazard to be expected by any person working in this particular field. This is misleading however, and a more careful and thorough investigation of the situation often reveals that there were factors beyond a reasonable expectation of occupational danger which contributed to the harmful incident. Under some circumstances it might be possible and appropriate to consider filing a lawsuit against a negligent employer, third party, or co-worker. The terms of workers’ compensation law often make it difficult for injured workers to pursue a legal action, but a skilled and experienced attorney can help you to determine whether this is an option for you.

The Far-Reaching Effects of Amputations

Amputations, in some ways, are wholly unlike other injuries that one might suffer in the workplace. For example, while most other injuries can be healed with treatment and the passage of time, an amputated limb or other body part can rarely be reattached. Additionally, it can compromise a person’s ability to not only fulfill work-based obligations but also to perform some very basic physical tasks. It is not uncommon for there to be psychological repercussions and adverse effects on an individual’s interpersonal relationships and sense of self-esteem. Amputations may affect one or more of the following body parts:

• Fingers, thumbs, hands, or arms
• Toes, feet, or legs
• Ears

Seeking Fair Compensation

There are many instances when a worker may be entitled to receive financial compensation for his or her amputation injuries. To ensure that you are fully aware of your rights in this difficult situation, contact the compassionate Queens construction accident lawyers of Parker Waichman Alonso, L.L.P.

James Witherspoon