Iowa Limb Injury Attorneys
Iowa workers have many worries when they suffer limb injuries. They often wonder when they will be able to work again, how they will care for their family and what they can do to cope with their reduced mobility. These concerns are valid, and workers should not have to address them alone.
At Wertz Law Firm, P.C., our workers’ compensation lawyers have spent over 60 years helping workers move forward from their injuries. We are based in Cedar Rapids and serve clients all across Iowa. We can serve you, too, if you have sustained a limb injury on the job. Call us at 319-774-2687 or email us to set up an appointment.
Common Types Of Limb Injuries
Limb injuries can impact the arms, legs and the joints attached to them. They can be divided into two different categories: those that happen at a single instance and those that develop over time (often due to repetitive stress). Between these two categories, there are different types of injuries. Some of the most common limb injuries, ranked from least to most severe, are:
- Sprains and strains
- Dislocations
- Closed fractures
- Open dislocations and fractures
- Traumatic amputations
Whether your limb injury is major or minor, it will likely impact your livelihood and functioning. As you adapt and recover, workers’ compensation benefits can help you make ends meet.
How Limb Injuries Impact People’s Lives
The limitations of limb injuries can make living challenging. They can affect people’s daily routines as well as their livelihood. While many people make full recoveries from limb injuries, others do not, and the effects of their symptoms may be compounded.
People often face the following struggles after suffering limb injuries:
- Challenges with daily functioning
- Inability to work
- Limited mobility
The psychological effects of limb injuries can be serious as well. Work provides meaning to people, and victims may experience depression and other mental health challenges if they can no longer do their jobs. Their stress can also increase due to the financial effects of not working.
Workers’ compensation benefits can provide relief for injured workers’ physical, mental and financial struggles. These benefits allow workers to take time to heal, which can make a major difference in their recovery. Obtaining workers’ compensation benefits is not easy, even though workers are entitled to them and is best done with the skilled guidance of an attorney.
How Injury Scheduling Works
Limb injuries are called “scheduled injuries” because each affected body part is listed on a workers’ compensation schedule created by Iowa legislators many years ago. The schedule defines how many weeks of financial compensation are available for each type of injury.
According to the schedule:
- The loss of a hand is compensated on the basis of 190 weeks.
- The loss of an arm on the basis of 250 weeks.
- The loss of a foot is compensated on the basis of 150 weeks.
- The loss of a knee (leg) is compensated on the basis of 220 weeks.
From there, the schedule lists smaller losses, like individual fingers and toes.
Physician Assessment And The Impairment Rating
Typically, at the end of a healing period involving a scheduled limb injury at work, a physician provides an impairment rating. This rating is then applied to the respective scheduled loss basis to determine the number of weeks owed to the injured worker as compensation for the permanent injury.
Let’s say a hand injury at work results in a 10% impairment rating by a physician. Since the value of a total loss of a hand is 190 weeks, a 10% loss is equivalent to 19 weeks of benefits. Typically, the insurance company will then initiate workers’ compensation benefits for an additional 19 weeks based on the physician’s impairment rating.
As you can imagine, scheduled payments are often inadequate to compensate for the long-term consequences associated with these injuries and losses, especially when a worker loses their job because they can no longer perform their essential functions. Some workers who have suffered scheduled injuries can take advantage of additional benefits under Iowa’s second injury fund.
Answering Your Crucial Questions About Work-Related Limb Injuries
As experienced workers’ compensation attorneys, we’ve helped countless Iowa workers navigate the complexities of limb injury claims. Our clients often come to us with pressing questions about their rights and the claim process. To help you better understand your situation, we’ve addressed some of the most frequent inquiries we receive:
How do I prove that my limb injury occurred while on the job?
To prove your injury happened at work, report it to your employer immediately and seek medical attention. Document the incident, gather witness statements if possible and keep all medical records. Our attorneys can help you compile and present this evidence effectively.
Which industries have the most limb injuries?
In Iowa, the construction, manufacturing and agriculture sectors see high rates of limb injuries. However, these injuries can occur in any workplace. Regardless of your industry we can assist with your workers’ compensation claim.
Are limb injuries and amputations the same thing?
Not all limb injuries result in amputation. Limb injuries encompass a wide range of conditions from sprains to fractures while amputations involve the loss of a body part. Both can be covered under workers’ compensation depending on the circumstances.
Can I receive compensation if my limb injury results in a permanent disability?
Yes, you can. Iowa workers’ compensation law provides benefits for permanent disabilities resulting from work-related limb injuries. The amount of compensation depends on factors such as the severity of the disability and its impact on your earning capacity.
How long do I have to file a claim after sustaining a limb injury at work?
Iowa law sets specific deadlines for workers’ compensation claims. You must notify your employer about your limb injury within 90 days of the incident. While you have up to two years to file a formal claim, we strongly advise against waiting. Prompt action can significantly strengthen your case and protect your rights. Our attorneys can guide you through this time-sensitive process, ensuring you meet all crucial deadlines.
These answers provide general information but every case is unique. If you’ve suffered a limb injury at work we encourage you to reach out to our firm. Our lawyers can offer personalized advice tailored to your specific situation. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you navigate the complexities of your workers’ compensation claim.
We Want To Fight For You
Talk with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney at Wertz Law Firm, P.C., for a review of your claim. We’ll make sure you are being compensated to the full extent provided by Iowa law. To get started, you can send us a message online or call 319-774-2687.