When a workplace accident happens the results can be devastating. This is true in Western Pennsylvania and beyond. A 53-year-old man in a neighboring state is all too aware of how serious they can be. Both of the sheet metal mechanic's hands were nearly completely severed from his arms in a work accident last month.

The incident occurred as the man was preparing to mold a piece of metal on a machine he had used many times before. Something went wrong however and his arms became caught in the machine. When all was said and done, the only thing holding the man's hands to his arms were flexor tendons.

Perhaps surprisingly his hands are now completely attached to the man's arms once more. Working in a six-hour window, two surgical teams successfully reattached both of his hands. Several weeks later he is now able to move all of his fingers. It is expected that the man will eventually regain his sense of touch.

In the state of Pennsylvania nearly all employers are required to purchase workers' compensation insurance. Though the laws regarding such matters vary from state-to-state, during the man's recuperation it is highly likely that the man in this case sought workers' compensation benefits. Once granted, the length of time for which the benefits are available will depend on the severity of this injury and when, if at all, someone is able to return to work.

Securing the maximum amount of benefits allowed under the laws of Pennsylvania can be a difficult proposition. Accordingly, many injured workers find it helpful to work with a lawyer familiar with the workers' compensation area of law.

Source: CBS New York, "Doctors Successfully Reattach S.I. Man’s Hands After Accident," May 29, 2013