Accidents occur every day, and depending on the type of incident, a victim can suffer anywhere from minor scrapes or bruises to broken bones or head trauma. However, in some cases, the nature of the accident can result in much more serious injuries. Catastrophic injuries may be sustained in vehicle crashes or workplace accidents, which can lead to a person having his or her limb severed or damaged beyond repair. These types of injuries often result in amputation in order to save the victim’s life. Losing any limb can have a profound impact on someone’s way of life, since he or she may not be able to return to work. In Tennessee, an amputation victim may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses and other damages if the accident was due to another party’s negligent behavior or actions.
Catastrophic Events
Amputations are traumatic, both physically and emotionally. The loss of an arm, hand, foot, leg, or foot can lead to various medical complications, severe pain, and permanent disability. In some cases, the accident that led to this catastrophic injury may have been caused by a negligent party. That is why it is important for an amputation victim to consider filing a personal injury claim with the help of an attorney.
Many amputations are often caused by injuries suffered in the following:
- Car accidents, including motorcycle collisions and truck crashes
- Construction site accidents or falls
- Farming accidents
- Fireworks mishaps
- Firearm-related incidents
- Animal attacks and bites
The party liable for your accident can include an intoxicated driver, a property or business owner who knew about hazardous conditions on his or her property, a manufacturer that made and distributed a defective or faulty product, or negligent pet owners.
Living with Assistance
An amputation can require extensive and costly, not to mention long-term medical care and ongoing treatment. After losing a limb, a person may not be able to live on his or her own. Medical bills incurred by this type of injury in addition to the estimated future costs can add up, leading to astronomical debt even with health insurance. A victim may be entitled to compensation for the following damages:
- Hospital care and treatment, including surgeries
- Physician’s visits
- Assistive equipment such as a wheelchair, braces, or crutches
- Home modifications to make it accessible
- Prosthetics
- Rehabilitation, including occupational and physical therapy
- Psychological counseling
If the injury impaired an individual’s ability to earn an income, this negatively affects his or her earning capacity. In other words, amputation victims may also be entitled to compensation for lost wages from past and future missed work, as well as intangible losses such as physical pain, mental anguish, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Contact a Chattanooga Personal Injury Lawyer
Catastrophic injuries that lead to amputation can be caused by multiple reasons, including negligence. If you or your loved one’s life has dramatically changed due to the loss of a limb after an accident, a qualified and dedicated Tennessee personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process of pursuing damages. The skilled legal team of Warren & Griffin, P.C. understands the devastating consequences these types of personal injury cases can have on victims. We will work tirelessly to make sure you receive adequate compensation for your injury so you can lead a good life. Call us today at 423-265-4878 to schedule a confidential consultation.
Sources: