Operating heavy machinery is not without risks. A simple malfunction or slip of the wrist can result in amputations, crushed limbs, or even death. If your job involves operating heavy machinery and you are injured at work as a result, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits and medical treatment for your injuries.
Do I Qualify?
In order to qualify, you must be out of work due to your injuries for more than five days. If you are injured while operating the machinery, it is important to report the injury to your supervisor but to also fill out an accident/injury report. It is also important to note the type of machine you were operating, if the injury was due to a malfunction, and the cause of the malfunction.
Total Disability as a Result of a Work Injury
If you are totally disabled from employment due to the work injury, then you may be entitled to receive 60% of your average weekly wage from your employers’ work comp insurance carrier. The average weekly wage is based on your gross wages for the 52 weeks before the date of the injury and is tax-free. If you are able to return to work but are only able to perform light duty work or work fewer hours—and if you are earning less than before your injury—you may still be entitled to weekly benefits. To calculate what you may be owed, you must take your average weekly wage, subtract what you are earning while working light duty or part-time, and multiply the difference by 60%, and that is what the insurance carrier owes you.
Were You Injured While Using Heavy Machinery at Work?
It is important to consult with an attorney if you are injured at work. Insurance companies are not always interested in protecting your rights; however, an attorney always is. Remember, in Massachusetts, an attorney cannot charge you to represent them, so there is no reason not to talk to an attorney for guidance in this trying time. At Keches Law Group, our attorneys are more than happy to answer any questions you may have and help you on your way to getting the compensation you deserve.
If you were hurt while using heavy machinery at work, contact Keches Law Group at 617-898-0808 or online for a free consultation today. One of our experienced attorneys can come to you if you are unable to come to one of our office locations, and we will begin the process of getting you compensation for your lost wages right away.
