- March 12, 2022
Workers’ comp can be helpful when working in some situations. Power tools are equipment powered by an electric motor or gasoline engine. They are used to perform manufacturing, construction, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing works. Power tools such as drills, hand saws, nail guns, etc., make jobs easy. But unfortunately, handling power tools can be dangerous and result in serious workplace accidents in Charlotte, NC.
If you have been hurt in a workplace accident, you have a right to seek compensation without fear of losing your job. Unfortunately, getting workers’ compensation benefits can be challenging due to uncooperative employers and stubborn insurance companies. Therefore, it is best to get a Charlotte, NC, workers’ compensation lawyer to help you fight for your right.
Many employees do not recognize the risk associated with power tools. No matter how familiar workers are with these types of equipment, it is essential to have the proper training in their usage. Inadequate training is what causes accidents. This article discusses power tools injuries and workers’ compensation benefits.
Common Causes of Power Tool-Accidents at Workplaces
Power tool-accidents and injuries occur due to a variety of reasons. These reasons include:
- Negligence or reckless behaviors of supervisors
- Electrical hazards
- Equipment failure
- Improper setup of the power tools
- Mishandling of power tools
- Poorly maintained or defective tools
- Insufficient pre-planning
- Untrained project supervisors
- Violation of safety standards and protocols, etc.
Common Workplace Injuries Caused by Power Tools
Any of these work-related injuries can qualify you for workers’ compensation benefits:
- Amputations
- Lacerations, burns, and electric shock
- Eye injuries
- Injuries resulting in wrongful death
- Impalings
- Slip and fall injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken joints
- Loss of limbs
- Head injuries/traumatic brain injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- Other workplace injuries, etc.
What To Do After a Power Tool Accident at Your Workplace
An injured worker has responsibilities to perform after a workplace accident caused by handling power tools. These responsibilities include:
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Get Medical Care
Where a power tool accident occurs, the priority is to seek medical care for the injuries sustained. Any delay in getting medical attention could affect your work comp claim. Also, getting medical care proves the source of your injuries and prevents insurance companies from discrediting your claim.
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Report the Injury
If you suffered injuries at your job, North Carolina law requires you to give your employer a written report of the accident within 30 days. Your employer is responsible for filing the injury report with the North Carolina Industrial Commission (NCIC). Failure to report the accident is one of the reasons your claim may be denied or devalued by insurance companies. Hence, you should report the accident immediately.
Workers’ Compensation Benefits and Settlements
If you have been involved in a power tool accident, there are several benefits you can claim. They include medical expenses, lost wages, disability benefits, etc.
The amount of compensation you can receive depends on the impact of your injuries and the length of time you were out of work. The types of benefits you can apply for under workers compensation insurance are:
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Temporary Total Disability Benefits
This benefit is paid after the accident, during the healing process. If you cannot work for more than seven days due to the accident, you will be entitled to two-thirds of your average weekly wage. You can receive a maximum of 500 weeks of temporary total disability benefits.
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Temporary Partial Disability Benefits
This benefit will be available if you are able to return to work, but your injury causes you to earn less. The benefit equals two-thirds of the difference between your pre-accident wage and what you earn afterward.
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Permanent Partial Disability Benefits
If you have a permanent partial disability from a power tool accident, you will be eligible for additional benefits. The amount received depends on your average wage and how much permanent damage you suffered to a specific body part.
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Permanent Total Disability Benefits
If the injury sustained left you permanently disabled, you will be entitled to disability payments for life. These injuries include loss of limbs, severe brain or closed head injury, paralysis, etc.
Contact a Charlotte Workers’ Compensation Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you have suffered a power tool injury at your job, you may be entitled to benefits. Contacting an experienced Charlotte, NC workers’ compensation lawyer who knows North Carolina work comp law takes you a step closer to getting your benefits.
Focus on taking care of yourself after an accident while our experienced team of lawyers handles your case. We will evaluate your claim and get you the best financial compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.
