Colburn Law

Causes of Workplace Amputation Injuries

An amputation injury permanently alters your life in ways most people never imagine. Beyond the intense pain and emotional distress, amputations force you to adapt how you perform basic daily tasks, interact with family, and earn a living. Your career path, hobbies, and independence can face serious disruption.

If you suffer an amputation injury at work, you have the right to pursue a workers’ compensation claim—regardless of who caused the accident. Let’s explore some of the common causes of these injuries and the steps that you should take in the aftermath.

If you were involved in a work injury, contact a Seattle workers compensation lawyer today for a free consultation at (206) 919-3215.

Why Colburn Law is the Right Choice for Your Workers’ Compensation Case

• Greg Colburn brings extensive experience in representing Washington’s injured workers. With his expertise, he can effectively advocate for your right to compensation.
• We prioritize clear communication and client-focused representation. Greg will take the time to understand your story and keep you informed every step of the way.
• To alleviate financial stress, we operate on a contingency basis—no legal fees unless we successfully secure compensation for you.

Accidents with Machinery and Equipment

Heavy machinery and equipment are some of the most common causes of amputation, especially in manufacturing, construction, and industrial settings. The power and speed of industrial equipment leave workers with virtually no reaction time once entanglement occurs.

Conveyor belts, mechanical power presses, food slicers, meat grinders, and powered hand tools can catch limbs and digits with devastating force. Even momentary contact with moving parts, blades, or pinch points can result in traumatic amputation.

If a loved one has an accident that is even more severe or fatal, contact a Seattle wrongful death attorney today to get justice.

Safety Guard Failures and Malfunctions

For safety purposes, manufacturers are required to install safety guards, emergency stops, and other protective features in heavy equipment. When these safety features fail or get removed for maintenance, workers face serious risks. Malfunctioning machine guards, disabled safety switches, and broken emergency shut-offs eliminate vital protective barriers between workers and dangerous moving components.

Inadequate Training and Coworker Negligence

It is the responsibility of everyone in the workplace to keep others safe. Proper safety training and strict adherence to protocols can help prevent amputations and other devastating workplace injuries. Unfortunately, not everyone follows the rules.

For example, inexperienced workers might operate dangerous machinery without proper training or supervision, putting themselves and others at risk. Even seasoned employees may take dangerous shortcuts to meet production quotas, such as removing safety guards to speed up processes.

Perhaps the most dangerous are violations of lockout/tagout procedures, where workers fail to properly disable and secure machinery during maintenance. This can lead to unexpected startups while someone’s hands are inside the equipment.

What to Do If You Suffer an Amputation Injury

After an amputation injury, your survival depends on quick action. Seek emergency medical attention as soon as possible by calling 911 and visiting the nearest hospital. While you are receiving medical care, make sure to follow your doctor’s orders precisely and attend all follow-up appointments.

You are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits if you suffer an amputation at work. To protect your claim, notify your employer of the injury as soon as your medical condition stabilizes. Washington law requires prompt reporting of workplace injuries. Document everything about the incident while memories remain fresh, including photos if possible.

Then, contact a Washington workplace injury attorney immediately to protect your rights. The workers’ compensation system can be complex, but a lawyer can guide you through the process step by step.

Discuss Your Legal Options with a Washington Workplace Injury Lawyer

The road to recovery after an amputation can seem long and daunting. Workers’ compensation claims can aid your journey, and an attorney from Colburn Law can handle your case while you focus on what matters most: your health and well-being. After your accident, contact us today at (206) 919-3215 for a free case consultation and learn what our firm can do for you.