Loss of Finger and Finger Injury Compensation, QLD
If you’ve suffered a finger injury at work, while on the road, or within a public place, you may be eligible for loss of finger or finger injury compensation. Losing or injuring a finger significantly impacts your life, and our compassionate compensation lawyers at WT Compensation Lawyers can help you claim compensation through reliable and trustworthy legal representation.
Finger injury or loss of fingers is sadly all too common in Australia. Between 2021 and 2023, there were 55 serious finger accidents in the mining sector alone, according to Resources Safety & Health Queensland. Unfortunately, your work environment is not the only place where the loss of a finger can occur, with road accidents and public places also being prone to hand injuries.
Key Takeaways:
- Finger injuries, including fractures, dislocations, and tendon injuries, are common in workplaces, road accidents, and public spaces.
- Finger injury compensation claims depend on injury severity and legal eligibility.
- Potential workers’ compensation payouts range from $8,000 to $70,000 based on which finger is affected and its impairment level.
- Claim time limits vary: 6 months for workers’ compensation, 3 years for common law damages, and 12 months for latent injuries — early legal consultation is essential.
What are Common Types of Finger Injuries?
The most common finger injuries are open wounds, fractures, dislocations, and tendon injuries. Speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand the amount of compensation you may be eligible to claim based on the type of injury and your claim process. Here are some of the different types of finger injuries explained in greater detail:
Open Hand Wounds
Open wounds are the most frequently reported finger injuries, accounting for approximately 28% of hospitalisations and 35% of workers’ compensation claims for hand and wrist injuries, according to the Australian Safety and Compensation Council (2008). Many open hand wounds result from a work injury from sharp tools or machinery accidents.
Finger Fractures
The finger bones (phalanges) are particularly susceptible to fractures due to crushing and surface collision. Depending on the fracture and severity, these painful injuries can impact your ability to work for several weeks.
Finger Dislocations
Finger dislocations and partial dislocations (subluxations) are also very common, often resulting from falls or direct impacts. These types of injuries can lead to significant pain, functional impairment, and future loss of income in severe cases.
Tendon Injuries
Tendon lacerations, which may occur alongside fractures or as isolated injuries, can severely affect finger function. Tendon injuries usually happen along with other finger injuries, and you may also be eligible for a common law injury compensation claim if another party was negligent or at fault.
How Much Compensation Do You Receive for a Finger Injury or Loss?
You can receive between $8,000 and $70,000 or more as your compensation payout based on the severity of your injury. An excellent way to estimate your potential compensation amount is to refer to the WorkCover Payout Table (general damages). This document outlines compensation amounts and ranges of Injury Scale Values (ISV) for various injuries, including finger injuries.
| Injury | Maximum Potential Payout (as of 1 July 2024) |
|---|---|
| Amputation of the thumb or part of the thumb | $72,405 |
| Amputation of index, middle, and ring fingers, or any 2 of them | $79,530 |
| Amputation of individual fingers | $45,770 |
| Extreme injury to 1 or more of the fingers or the thumb | $61,710 |
| Serious injury to 1 or more of the fingers or the thumb | $31,715 |
| Moderate injury to 1 or more of the fingers or the thumb | $19,355 |
| Minor injury to 1 or more of the fingers or the thumb | $8,745 |
(These figures are potential payouts based on workers’ compensation. Other payouts, such as those for common law or motor vehicle accident claims, will vary. Consult our friendly team at WT Compensation Lawyers for an accurate estimate.)
The amount you receive for your finger injury compensation claim depends on the severity of your injury. For example, according to WorkCover, a minor injury to your ring finger could result in a payout of $8,745. In contrast, the complete loss of your ring finger could result in a compensation settlement of $45,770.
How Long Do I Have to Claim for Finger Injuries?
You have between 6 months and 3 years to file a claim for your finger injury or loss, depending on whether it is a workers’ compensation claim, common law damages claim, or a claim for latent onset injuries. While immediately filing a personal injury claim is the best way to get your compensation, it’s always a good idea to speak to a compensation lawyer. They will help you understand whether you may be entitled to compensation before you submit your claim.
| Type of Claim | Time Limit |
|---|---|
| Workers Compensation Claim (QLD) | You must lodge your workers compensation claim with WorkCover within 6 months of the injury or becoming aware of it. This is a strict deadline, but exceptions may apply in limited circumstances. |
| Common Law Damages Claim | For personal injury claims, including finger injuries, you generally have 3 years from the date of the injury to start your legal proceedings. This applies to most jurisdictions, including Queensland. |
| Latent Onset Injuries | If the injury develops over time (e.g., repetitive strain or RSI), you have 12 months from the date of diagnosis to lodge your claim. |
WT Compensation Lawyers | Compassionate Compensation
At WT Compensation Lawyers, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate legal advice if you’ve injured or lost your finger. We provide trustworthy and reliable representation and advice for your claim, with a focus on helping you enrich and improve your life.
We offer a No Win, No Fee policy that reduces the burden of financial strain. Reach out to our friendly personal injury and accident claim lawyers today to speak about what you can claim if you have suffered a finger injury.
Even if at fault, you may have a right to compensation. Start your claims check:
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Loss of Finger and Finger Injury Compensation, QLD FAQs
Yes, finger injuries can have a significant impact on your life and are commonly suffered through work-related accidents. In Australia, there were 15,120 serious injury claims involving injuries to the hand, fingers, and thumb from 2018 to 2019, requiring five or more days off work. This highlights how potentially severe these injuries can be.
Yes, losing a finger can qualify for disability benefits in Australia. This is mainly if the finger injury results in a permanent impairment that affects your ability to work. The assessment for disability is based on the severity of the impairment. Moreover, you may be eligible for compensation under various schemes, including the Disability Support Pension (DSP) if your condition meets the required thresholds.
Your finger injury or finger loss injury claim can take between 12 and 18 months to resolve common law claims. This depends on several factors, though, and it’s best to speak with a personal injury lawyer like WT Compensation Lawyers.
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Even if at fault, you may have a right to compensation. Start your claims check:
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