Last updated · By Mustafa Bilgic
How finger injuries are valued
Finger and hand injuries are valued on how much they affect grip, dexterity and function, not just the bone itself. A clean fracture that heals fully is a modest claim; a crush injury that leaves stiffness, deformity or partial amputation is worth considerably more. In England and Wales, the figure comes from the Judicial College Guidelines (JCG). In the calculator above, choose "Wrist or hand injury" and set severity to match your prognosis, then use the figures here for the specific finger injury.
Minor finger injuries
A simple finger fracture, sprain or laceration that heals fully within a few months sits at the lower end — indicatively £2,000–£5,000. The figure rises if there is any residual ache, scarring or temporary loss of grip.
Moderate finger injuries
More serious finger injuries — a displaced or multiple fracture, tendon damage, or an injury that leaves lasting stiffness, reduced grip or sensitivity to cold — are typically valued at £5,000–£20,000. Injuries to the index finger or to more than one finger sit higher in this band.
Severe finger and thumb injuries
Serious thumb injuries, partial or total amputation of one or more fingers, and crush injuries causing permanent deformity fall at the top — loss of a single finger is roughly £9,000–£19,000, and serious thumb injuries or multiple amputations reach £39,000–£61,000. The thumb is valued most highly because it provides about half of overall hand function.
What affects a finger injury payout
- Which digit — the thumb and index finger are worth more than the little finger because they matter more to grip.
- Dominant hand — an injury to your dominant hand has a greater effect on daily life and work.
- Loss of function — lasting stiffness, reduced grip, cold sensitivity or deformity all raise the figure.
- Effect on work — manual workers and those who rely on fine dexterity may have significant future-loss claims.
Special damages for finger injuries
On top of the injury figure you can usually recover special damages — lost earnings while you could not work, physiotherapy and hand therapy, any surgery, and out-of-pocket costs. For workers whose job depends on manual dexterity, a permanent finger injury can also reduce future earning capacity. Enter your losses in the calculator and they are added on top.
Finger injury claims in practice
Finger and hand injuries are common in machinery, factory and DIY accidents. Smaller claims may be handled through the Official Injury Claim portal, while more serious crush or amputation injuries usually involve a solicitor on a no-win-no-fee basis. This page gives an estimate only and is not legal advice.
Finger injury compensation calculator — frequently asked questions
How much compensation can I get for a finger injury in the UK?
A minor finger fracture that heals fully is valued at roughly £2,000–£5,000, a moderate finger injury with lasting stiffness or reduced grip at about £5,000–£20,000, and serious thumb injuries or multiple-finger amputations from around £39,000 to £61,000 under the Judicial College Guidelines. Loss of a single finger is roughly £9,000–£19,000.
How much is a broken finger worth?
A simple broken finger that heals fully within a few months typically falls at the lower end, around £2,000–£5,000 in the UK, plus any lost earnings and treatment costs. The figure rises if the fracture is displaced, needs surgery, or leaves lasting stiffness, deformity or reduced grip.
How much is a finger amputation worth?
Loss of a single finger is typically valued at £9,000–£19,000 in the UK depending on which finger and the effect on grip, while loss of a thumb is higher, often £39,000–£61,000. Multiple-finger amputations and serious hand crush injuries sit at the top of the bracket.
How much is a finger injury settlement in the US?
US finger and hand injury settlements range from about $5,000 for a minor fracture to $90,000 or more for amputation or a serious crush injury affecting hand function. The figure depends on your state, the strength of medical evidence, the at-fault party's insurance and any lost income.
Is this finger injury calculator accurate?
It gives a realistic guide based on Judicial College bracket figures and typical US settlement ranges, but it is not a guarantee. Finger-injury values turn on which digit, the dominant hand, loss of function and your proven losses. Choose 'Wrist or hand injury' in the tool and set severity to match. Always confirm with a qualified solicitor or attorney.