Workers’ Comp Hand Injury Settlements: What You Need to Know

Suffering a hand injury on the job can significantly impact your ability to work and perform daily tasks. Since the hands are essential for most occupations, injuries can result in lost wages, medical expenses, and long-term disability. Workers' compensation is designed to help injured workers receive financial support and medical care. Workers' comp hand injury settlements typically range from $2,000 to $10,000 for minor injuries, $20,000 to $60,000 for moderate injuries, and over $100,000 for severe cases such as amputations or permanent disability.

If you've sustained a hand injury at work, you may be entitled to a settlement. Shultz Legal can help you with settling workers compensation claims specifically for hand injuries. 

Common Types of Hand Injuries in the Workplace

Fractures are one of the most frequently reported hand injuries. These occur when the bones in the fingers, hand, or wrist break due to falls, machinery accidents, or heavy object impacts. A fractured hand can require weeks or even months to heal, affecting a worker’s ability to perform job duties.

Lacerations and punctures are another type of workplace injury. Sharp tools, machinery, or worksite hazards can cause deep cuts that require stitches or surgery. If nerves or tendons are damaged, long-term rehabilitation may be necessary.

Crush injuries occur when the hand gets caught in heavy machinery or under falling objects. These injuries can cause severe damage to bones, muscles, and soft tissue, sometimes leading to permanent impairment.

Repetitive strain injuries (RSI), such as carpal tunnel syndrome, develop over time due to repetitive motions. Workers who perform tasks like typing, assembly line work, or using vibrating tools are at high risk of developing RSI-related hand conditions.

Amputations are among the most severe hand injuries. When fingers or hands are lost due to workplace accidents, the worker may experience permanent disability, requiring prosthetics and extensive rehabilitation.

Burns and chemical exposure can cause severe skin damage, nerve injuries, and long-term functional impairment. Workers in industries that involve high temperatures, hazardous chemicals, or electrical work face these risks.

Workers' Compensation Benefits for Hand Injuries

Workers' compensation provides essential financial and medical support for injured workers. Medical expenses, including doctor visits, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medication, are covered under workers' comp. If an injured worker is unable to return to their job while recovering, they may receive temporary disability benefits, which help replace lost wages during recovery.

For those with lasting impairments, permanent disability benefits may be awarded based on the severity of the injury. Some workers may also qualify for vocational rehabilitation if their injury prevents them from returning to their previous job. Workers' comp settlements can be provided as a lump sum or structured payments, depending on the circumstances.

Factors That Affect Hand Injury Settlement Amounts

The severity of the injury is a major determining factor. A simple fracture with full recovery will likely result in a lower settlement compared to an amputation or permanent disability.

Medical expenses play a significant role in settlement calculations. The cost of initial treatments, surgeries, rehabilitation, and future medical care is considered when determining the settlement amount.

Lost wages also affect settlements. The longer a worker is unable to return to their job, the higher the compensation for lost income.

A doctor’s assessment of the permanent impairment rating can impact the final settlement. This rating measures the percentage of lost function in the hand, which directly affects the compensation awarded.

The worker’s occupation and wage loss impact also come into play. A highly skilled worker who loses significant earning potential due to a hand injury may receive a higher settlement.

State-specific workers' comp laws vary, affecting settlement amounts. Each state has different guidelines and maximum compensation limits for permanent disabilities. To understand Maryland’s click here. 

Having legal representation can make a significant difference. Workers’ comp attorneys help ensure fair negotiations with insurance companies and maximize settlement amounts.

Average Workers' Comp Settlement for Hand Injuries

Settlement amounts for hand injuries vary widely based on the severity of the injury and other influencing factors.

Injury Type	Average Settlement Amount
Minor injuries (small fractures, cuts)	$2,000 - $10,000
Moderate injuries (severe fractures, nerve damage)	$20,000 - $60,000
Severe injuries (amputations, permanent disability)	$100,000+

For example, a worker who suffers a fractured hand with a full recovery may receive around $20,000, while a case involving amputation could lead to a six-figure settlement.

Steps to Filing a Workers' Comp Claim for a Hand Injury

The first step is reporting the injury immediately. Workers must notify their employer as soon as the accident occurs to ensure eligibility for compensation.

Next, the injured worker must seek medical treatment. Seeing a workers’ comp-approved doctor is crucial for documenting the severity of the injury and receiving appropriate care.

After medical evaluation, the worker should file a workers' compensation claim. This involves submitting necessary paperwork to the employer or state agency.

Following medical advice is essential. Compliance with the prescribed treatment plan helps ensure continued eligibility for benefits.

Finally, consulting a workers' comp attorney can be beneficial, especially if a claim is denied or if the settlement offer is too low. An attorney can negotiate a fair settlement and represent the injured worker if necessary.

How a Workers' Comp Attorney Can Help

Hiring a workers' comp attorney can significantly impact the outcome of a claim.

An attorney ensures that the injured worker receives the maximum settlement amount. They can challenge denied claims, negotiate fair settlements, and gather medical evidence to support the case.

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. Having legal representation helps level the playing field and ensures the injured worker’s rights are protected.

If the case goes to a hearing or appeal, an attorney provides expert representation to secure the best possible outcome for the injured worker.

Need Representation?

Hand injuries can be life-altering, affecting both work and daily activities. Workers' compensation provides financial relief, but securing a fair settlement requires understanding the claims process and advocating for proper compensation. If you’ve suffered a workplace hand injury, seeking legal assistance can help ensure you receive the settlement you deserve. Contact Shultz Legal today for a free consultation and let us help you get the compensation you need to move forward.