Loss of Use of Body Parts

The inability to use a hand, arm, leg, or other essential body part not only significantly impacts an individual’s ability to maintain a normal quality of life, but it can also prevent them from performing their job and earning an income. Fortunately, when the loss of use of body parts is caused by workplace conditions, the injured workers can often recover workers’ compensation benefits to help offset their losses. Pursuing such benefits can be challenging, though, and it is not uncommon for people to become overwhelmed during the process. If you suffered a work-related loss of use of body parts, it is advisable to contact an attorney as soon as possible to discuss what benefits you may be owed. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our seasoned Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys recognize how devastating the loss of use of a body part can be for an employee, both physically and emotionally, and if you engage our services, we can assist you in pursuing the benefits you need to support your recovery and future.

Loss of use of a body part can occur in a variety of ways, including traumatic workplace accidents, such as crush injuries, falls, or equipment malfunctions, as well as long-term exposure to repetitive motions or hazardous conditions. In some cases, occupational diseases, such as nerve damage or joint degeneration, can also lead to the partial or complete loss of use of a hand, arm, leg, or foot. This loss can manifest as an inability to grip, lift, walk, or perform other critical movements required for employment or everyday activities.

The physical impact of losing function in a body part is often accompanied by emotional and financial hardships. Workers may experience feelings of frustration and helplessness as they struggle to perform tasks they once did with ease. The loss of use can also prevent employees from returning to their previous positions or force them into lower-paying roles, creating significant economic strain. Treatment for these injuries often includes surgery, physical therapy, assistive devices such as braces or prosthetics, and other costly interventions. For many, the damage may be permanent, requiring long-term adjustments and accommodations.

Under Maryland’s Workers’ Compensation Act, employees who suffer a partial or complete loss of use of a body part as a result of a work-related injury or occupational illness may be owed benefits. To qualify for benefits, an employee must demonstrate that the loss of use is directly related to their employment, whether through an accident, repetitive strain, or exposure to harmful conditions. Workers’ compensation benefits for loss of use include several types of support designed to address both medical needs and lost wages. Medical benefits are typically provided to cover the cost of doctor’s visits, surgeries, therapies, and assistive devices, such as prosthetics or braces. For workers who cannot return to their previous employment due to their loss of use, wage replacement benefits are also available. These wage benefits are calculated based on the worker’s average weekly wage prior to the injury, capped at a percentage set by Maryland law. For temporary partial disability, benefits are generally two-thirds of the difference between the pre-injury wages and the reduced wages earned after the injury. For permanent partial disability, the compensation is determined based on the specific body part affected, the degree of impairment, and the established compensation rate per Maryland’s schedule of benefits.

In cases of total loss of use of body parts, such as the complete inability to use a hand, arm, leg, or foot, workers may be entitled to permanent total disability benefits. These benefits are calculated at two-thirds of the worker’s average weekly wage, subject to statutory maximums, and may continue for the duration of the worker’s life.

The loss of use of a body part can be a devastating and life-altering experience that affects your ability to work and enjoy everyday activities. If you suffered partial or total loss of use of body parts due to a workplace accident, repetitive strain, or occupational disease, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, and you should speak to an attorney. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our assertive Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys understand what it takes to prevail in workers’ compensation claims, and if we represent you, we will help you pursue the benefits that can provide the medical care and financial support you need to move forward with your life. Our office is located in Greenbelt, Maryland, and we regularly aid people with workers’ compensation claims in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, La Plata, Waldorf, Silver Spring, Rockville, and other cities in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, and all counties in the State of Maryland. You can schedule a confidential and free consultation by contacting us through our form online or by calling us at (301) 441-2022.