Doctors reattach worker’s severed arm after horrible accident

On behalf of Jeffrey Frederick of Frederick & Hagle posted in Workplace Accidents on Friday, January 18, 2013.

In an out-of-state workplace accident that seems most fitting for the plot of a horror movie, a 50-year-old man had his arm severed. Disfigured and bleeding to death, following the workplace accident medical staff wasn’t even sure that this man would survive, much less regain his health with all of his limbs.

But the quick thinking of one doctor and a risky procedure meant that after 18 long hours of surgery, this father both survived and had his arm reattached. While there are rods to hold the bone in place and the man does have muscle and never damage, his sensitivity and dexterity are continually improving.

Workplace accidents like this can result in astounding medical bills and a significant absence from work. Some injured workers are never able to return to the workforce following a serious injury. In Illinois, if a worker is seriously injured in a workplace accident, they are eligible for collection of workers’ compensation benefits. This should mean that the injured worker should receive coverage for medical expenses as well as wage replacement.

However, workers that are injured in an accident which results in the complete or partial loss of a body part could also be eligible for permanent partial disability benefits. Some of these individuals are able to continue working, but in a different capacity which could mean a reduction in their wages. Accordingly, PPD can help account for that pay gap.

Speaking with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney after similar circumstances can assist an injured worker in understanding the best method for full financial recovery following a debilitating injury on the job in Illinois.

Source: KHOU.com, “Navy vet’s arm reattached after workplace injury,” Janet St. James, Jan. 3, 2013