Amputations are one of the most traumatizing consequences of a catastrophic accident. Approximately 185,000 amputations occur annually, and 45% of them are the result of negligent or reckless behavior, including motor vehicle collisions, workplace incidents, and sporting injuries. Many amputees face depression and financial hardships. If this has happened to you, you need the legal acumen and skill at Kogan & DiSalvo in Lakeland, Florida, to recover the compensation for your damages and losses.
We leverage our extensive knowledge and real-world experience to present the strongest and most compelling case. Our accomplished team has devoted their legal careers to helping personal injury victims return to financially and emotionally stable lives. Contact us today for a free consultation.
As noted, amputations can result from various incidents, each with unique challenges. Understanding the causes and types of amputations is crucial in assessing liability and appropriate legal action.
Causes of Amputations
The most common causes of amputations due to negligence include the following:
Workplace Accidents include incidents in construction sites, factories, or farms where heavy machinery is used.
Auto Accidents: Car, motorcycle, or truck accidents can cause severe trauma leading to amputations.
Medical Malpractice: Incorrect surgical procedures or misdiagnosis can lead to unnecessary amputations.
Electric Shocks: High-voltage electric shocks can cause severe burns, leading to the need for amputation.
Crushing Injuries: These happen when a part of the body gets compressed between two heavy objects.
Burns and Frostbite: Severe burns or frostbite can damage tissues beyond repair, causing an amputation.
Types of Amputations
Different types of amputation can significantly impact your mobility and available prosthetics, and include the following:
Leg Amputations: This can range from partial foot amputation, ankle disarticulation, and below-knee to above-knee amputation.
Arm Amputations: This includes finger amputation, metacarpal amputation, wrist disarticulation, below-elbow and above-elbow amputation, and shoulder disarticulation.
Joint Amputations: This involves the removal of the entire joint, such as the hip or shoulder.
Partial Amputations: Only a part of the limb is amputated, and some soft tissue connection remains.
If you are facing a life-altering amputation due to someone else’s negligence, you are not alone. A dedicated Lakeland amputation injury lawyer at Kogan & DiSalvo is ready to help.
Physical and Psychological Implications
The aftermath of an amputation extends beyond the physical pain and loss. It also affects an individual’s physiological well-being and psychological stability.
Physiological Implications
The physical implications of amputation extend beyond limb loss. It can affect your life in many other ways, such as:
Chronic Pain: Post-amputation, individuals often experience lingering pain in the area of amputation, known as phantom limb syndrome.
Prosthetic Challenges: Adapting to a prosthetic limb demands significant physical effort.
Physical Dependence: Depending on the extent of the amputation, individuals may become dependent on equipment for mobility or daily activities.
Secondary Health Conditions: Amputees may face a higher risk of health conditions due to decreased physical activity.
Psychological Implications
Amputations are a traumatic experience, especially when an accident causes the unexpected loss of a limb. The psychological implications include the following:
Mental Health Disorders: Facing a life-altering event could lead to mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety.
Self-Image and Esteem Issues: The dramatic change in physical appearance can damage a person’s self-esteem.
Coping and Adjustment: Adapting to a new way of life post-amputation can be a source of significant psychological stress.
Social and Professional Impact: The amputation might impact an individual’s social interactions and professional capabilities, potentially leading to feelings of isolation and financial stress.
The path to recovery, both physically and mentally, is challenging, but you do not have to travel it alone.
What is the Legal Process for Amputation Cases in Lakeland?
If you have suffered an amputation due to another party’s negligence, you may be eligible for compensation. Here is a brief overview of the legal process in Polk County for amputation cases:
Filing a Lawsuit. The first step in seeking justice is filing a lawsuit against the responsible party. An experienced amputation injury lawyer can guide you through the legal process.
Building a Strong Case. We know how to determine liability, prove the full value of your claim, and pursue the compensation that provides for your lifelong care. We gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and document your injuries and losses to make a compelling case on your behalf. We may also obtain medical records, accident reports, and expert testimony.
Determining Compensation. The circumstances of your accident influence the compensation you receive, which often involves the extent of your injuries and their impact on your life. You may be eligible for medical expenses (past, ongoing, and future), lost wages, loss of earning capacity caused by the amputation, and pain and suffering.
We have years of experience handling amputation cases in Lakeland and can help you determine what damages you may be eligible to recover.
Kogan & DiSalvo Can Help You
At Kogan & DiSalvo, we understand that facing an amputation is a life-changing event, and the legal process can be overwhelming. However, trust that our team of catastrophic injury lawyers is ready to leverage our substantial resources and experience to fight for your rights. Schedule your free consultation today. We’re happy to assess your case and answer your questions. Since we work on a contingency basis, there are no upfront legal fees.
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