A workplace injury resulting in an amputation most likely qualifies you for workers’ compensation. The amount you receive depends on the state in which you work, as well as which appendage/appendages were lost. According to ProPublica, New Jersey workers’ compensation benefits pays higher than the national average for several limbs, but some are valued at a lower than average amount.
The amount paid depends on what is known as a schedule of disabilities, which details the maximum amount of money offered per limb. This is calculated based on a combination of what is lost, as well as the percentage of disability that results from the lost limb. For example, if you were to lose a finger but still be able to perform the majority of your job, then you would not be entitled to as much workers’ compensation money as you would if the loss of the finger severely limited your ability to work.
In New Jersey, the maximum amount you would be entitled to for losing a leg is $103, 536 higher than the national average at $256,757. You also could earn more than the national average for losing your eye, foot, hand and arm. These are worth $102,600; $136,344; $163,391 and $268,983 respectively.
If you were to just lose a finger or a toe, then you would end up with less money in New Jersey than you would in another state. The loss of the thumb pays the most at $22,230, but that is still over $20,000 less than the national average. Losing an ear also brings in less money in New Jersey than the national average.
These calculations include the benefit increase for amputation, as well as the benefit for enucleation, which is the loss or removal of an eye. This information is meant for educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice.