Amputations are classed as catastrophic personal injuries. However, if you have lost a limb due to an accident, it is important to know that recovery is possible and a fulfilling life remains achievable. Securing compensation after an amputation injury plays a vital role in this process, as it allows you to access the best treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term support.
In addition, an experienced Personal Injury Solicitor will work closely with the other side’s insurers to put a comprehensive and personalised rehabilitation plan in place from an early stage.
An amputation involves the surgical removal of a body part, such as an arm, leg, hand, foot, or finger. It is one of the oldest surgical procedures, and many people adapt remarkably well following the loss of a limb.
Although accidents and traumatic injuries commonly cause amputations, they are not the only reason. Infections such as meningitis, complications from diabetes, and certain medical conditions can also lead to limb loss.
In some situations, doctors must carry out an amputation immediately to save the patient’s life. When surgery is not urgent, medical professionals will first complete a thorough assessment. They will then determine the safest and most effective level at which to perform the amputation.
If the surgery involves an arm or leg, a prosthetic limb specialist will also assess you. Furthermore, a mental health professional may offer support and help develop a post-operative care plan to address the emotional impact of limb loss.
Surgeons perform amputations under a general anaesthetic or an epidural, depending on what best suits your circumstances. Before surgery, your surgeon will explain both options in detail.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the affected limb or part of the limb. They then shorten and smooth the bone before covering it with sufficient muscle and tissue. This careful approach helps prepare the limb for future prosthetic use, in line with specialist recommendations.
After surgery, you will usually stay in hospital for several days. Although pain is expected, doctors will manage it with appropriate medication to keep you as comfortable as possible.
If an accident caused your amputation and negligence played a role, you may be entitled to claim compensation. To succeed with an amputation personal injury claim, you must prove, on the balance of probabilities, that:
Although this process may sound straightforward, disputes can arise. For example, the Defendant may argue that the injury was not foreseeable. To strengthen your case, your Solicitor will review medical records, examine the accident scene, and instruct expert witnesses to assess liability and your long-term prognosis.
Under the Rehabilitation Code 2015, your Solicitor will work with the Defendant’s insurer to seek an early admission of liability. As a result, they can request interim payments to fund immediate rehabilitation.
A Case Manager, often with a medical or occupational health background, will then carry out an Immediate Needs Assessment (INA). This assessment helps create a tailored rehabilitation programme covering your physical recovery, mental wellbeing, and occupational needs.
Most experienced Personal Injury Solicitors handle cases on a No Win, No Fee basis. This means you will not pay legal fees if your claim is unsuccessful, although some disbursements may still apply.
In addition, your Solicitor can arrange After the Event (ATE) insurance. This cover protects you from paying the Defendant’s legal costs if your claim does not succeed.
Amputation injury claims are complex and require the expertise of a skilled and compassionate Personal Injury Solicitor. With the right legal support, you can secure both the compensation and rehabilitation needed to rebuild your life.
At NJS Law, our team has decades of combined experience representing clients in amputation and catastrophic personal injury claims. We are understanding, supportive, and committed to helping you every step of the way.
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