Personal Injury and Amputation

By Grant Law Office on July 31, 2017

The removal of a bodily appendage is called an amputation. Amputations are serious and life-changing, and in the Atlanta area they occur at an unfortunate rate. They can be caused by traumatic injuries, illnesses, and surgical practices. In many cases, the victims can use a prosthetic limb to make their lives manageable, but little can be done to relieve the pain, discomfort, and inconvenience of living as an amputee.

Amputations occur for a range of reasons. In some cases a violent or traumatic injury directly or indirectly causes the removal of the appendage. Such is the case in car accidents, railroad accidents, and other situations where the body is met with a violent force. These types of injuries are especially dangerous as the victim faces the threat of sudden death from blood loss. In some cases, the limb is mutilated, burned, severely traumatized, crushed, or partially severed, and must be removed surgically.

Sometimes medical conditions and illnesses necessitate the removal of a limb. Cases like this include compartment syndrome, sepsis, cancerous tumors, melanoma, bone infections, and deformities. Sometimes the limb of a victim suffering one of these conditions can be saved using preventative measures like hyperbaric oxygen therapy and microsurgery.

Whatever the cause, an amputation is a catastrophic event in the victim’s life. Victims have serious trouble returning to their daily routines and occupations. Once simple acts like driving, eating, and bathing can become vexing endeavors for amputees. In some cases full-time medical aid is necessary. Medical measures and recovery can be very costly and time-consuming. Victims seeking to salvage their lives are faced with heavy financial burdens. Prosthetic legs can cost $50,000 or more, while a prosthetic arm could cost $30,000 or more. These costs can be swayed by the intended use, material, and function of the prosthetic.

Living with an amputation is incredibly difficult and expensive. Thankfully there are laws in place that are meant to protect victims of amputations. If an accident at work or on the road causes an amputation, the victim often has the right to monetary compensation. Navigating a legal matter like this can be difficult and should always be executed with the help of a qualified lawyer. If you or someone you know has suffered an amputation, or have questions about medical conditions like these, please contact Grant Law Office.