Chaffin v. Grand Rapids Metalcraft

On December 2,1965, plaintiff Eddie Chaffin was working as an automatic press operator for defendant Grand Eapids Metalcraft. On that date plaintiff reached into a press to “catch a die” and the “ram” came down crushing his right hand.

Plaintiff’s hand was badly damaged with his right thumb partially being torn off and with his index finger being partially damaged. Surgery was performed and plaintiff’s right thumb was removed, including the “metacarpal bone”.

Plaintiff claimed workmen’s compensation for the loss of a thumb under MCLA 412.10(a)(1); MSA 17.160(a) (1), which amounted to 65 weeks…