What You Need to Know About the Cost of Work Injuries in Mass.
Let’s say you were seriously injured in a workplace accident in Massachusetts. Perhaps you lost an arm in a machinery accident. Your employer has workers’ compensation, as required by law. So that means you will receive money and benefits as part of your settlement.
But you might be surprised to find out that the compensation you are entitled to receive for that loss is, on average, lower in Massachusetts than it is in many other states – much lower. According to data from Pro Publica, the average amount of compensation for a lost arm in Massachusetts is $52,245. That’s more than three times less than the average cost in the United States for the loss of an arm, $169,878.
In Massachusetts, compensation for many other serious injuries is below the national average. According to Pro Publica, many catastrophic injuries, including the loss of a leg, an ear or an eye, will result in lower compensation than in other states. Here’s a breakdown of numbers from Pro Publica. The first number represents the maximum compensation in Massachusetts while the second number represents the national average.
- Leg: $47,385; $153,221
- Hand: $41,310; $144,930
- Thumb: $16,524; $42,432
- Index finger: $10,327; $24,474
- Middle finger: $8,262; $20,996
- Ring finger: $4,131; $14,660
- Pinky: $2,065; $11,343
- Foot: $35,235; $91,779
- Big toe: $6,342; $23,436
- Eye: $47,385; $96,700
- Ear: $35,235; $38,050
How an Attorney Can Make a Difference
Some injured workers in Massachusetts might wonder, why hire an attorney? After all, the cost of the loss is spelled out. But there are many cases where a workers’ comp lawyer is critical. The claims process can be complicated in Massachusetts. The laws are complex. It’s not unusual for employers to dispute a claim by an injured worker. The employer and its insurance company might be unresponsive. The employer and its insurance carrier might make unreasonable demands such as asking you to come in to work even though you’re injured. The insurance company might not be paying your medical bills for legitimate treatment.
These are a few of the reasons why you need an experienced attorney at your side.
Deborah G. Kohl has more than 30 years’ experience representing clients seriously injured while working. She knows how to fight for every penny you deserve after a catastrophic accident.
The Law Offices of Deborah G. Kohl offers free consultations to every potential client. You won’t have to worry about paying anything up front. Massachusetts law requires that the insurance company for your employer must pay your attorney’s fee if you win the case. You need to call Deborah G. Kohl today if you or a loved one was injured at work. We invite you to contact us and ask us any questions you have about your case.