A: Yes. In Iowa, if a worker suffers an injury to their arms or legs and it significantly impacts their ability to keep a job or find new work, they may be entitled to additional compensation under the Iowa Second Injury Fund Act—on top of regular workers’ compensation benefits.

The Second Injury Fund was created to help workers who have multiple injuries to different parts of their hand, foot and eye. If those combined injuries make it hard—or impossible—for them to stay in the workforce, the Fund provides extra benefits to help make up for that loss.

Here’s the catch: it only applies if the worker had prior injuries to different limbs before the most recent work injury. The purpose of the Fund is to recognize the combined impact of multiple injuries on a worker’s ability to earn a living.

If you’ve had injuries to more than one arm or leg—and your ability to work has taken a serious hit—it’s important to talk to a workers’ compensation attorney right away. The rules around the Second Injury Fund are complex, and the recent legislative changes may affect your eligibility.

Don’t assume that a scheduled member injury (like to an arm or leg) in a workers' compensation case limits your options. If previous injuries or a new disability are keeping you out of work, the Second Injury Fund might offer a lifeline. Call LLDDC Law for legal advice to protect your rights.