Verdict Spotlight
$4M
From manufacturer of textile machine after 48-year-old man's dominant arm got caught in steam rollers of machine resulting in amputation
Lawyers Addressing the Loss of Limbs in Catastrophic Accidents in Arlington Heights
Losing a limb can be one of the most traumatic and life-changing injuries a person can endure. Whether an amputation occurs during an accident or as a medical necessity due to a severe injury, the physical, emotional, and financial effects that a person may experience are likely to be overwhelming. Fortunately, people who have suffered amputation injuries due to the negligence of others can take steps to obtain compensation that will help them rebuild their lives.
The lawyers at Schwartz Injury Law provide legal guidance and advocacy to people in Arlington Heights who are coping with the aftermath of amputation injuries. By thoroughly investigating the incident that led to an amputation, identifying all liable parties, and taking steps to secure full compensation, we can help ensure that victims will have the resources they need going forward.
Situations That May Lead to Amputation Injuries
Amputations may occur immediately in the aftermath of a traumatic accident or later as a result of severe damage to tissues, bones, or blood vessels. These injuries often result from catastrophic events involving high-impact forces or crushing injuries. Examples of situations that may lead to amputations include:
- Motor Vehicle Collisions: High-speed car accidents, especially those involving motorcycles, trucks, or pedestrians, can result in injuries so severe that surgical amputation becomes necessary.
- Construction Accidents: Industrial machinery, power tools, and unsafe working conditions on construction sites may lead to injuries resulting in the loss of limbs.
- Falls From Heights: A significant fall can cause compound fractures or vascular damage that will require amputation.
- Medical Malpractice: Infections, delayed diagnosis, or surgical errors can result in the loss of a limb that could have been preserved with proper care.
- Acts of Violence: Gunshot wounds or other traumatic assaults can cause irreversible damage to extremities.
Medical Treatment and Rehabilitation for Amputation Injuries
Treatment for an amputation injury typically involves multiple stages of care, including:
- Emergency Medical Treatment: Immediate care can stabilize a victim's condition, control bleeding, and prevent further damage.
- Surgical Amputation: When traumatic injuries cannot be repaired, surgical removal of a limb or body part may be required.
- Post-Surgical Care: Wound care, infection prevention, and pain management are critical in the early recovery period.
- Physical and Occupational Therapy: To strengthen the body, adapt to prosthetics, and restore functional abilities, a person may need to receive therapy on an ongoing basis.
- Prosthetic Fitting and Training: Custom-fitted limbs require training and frequent adjustment for comfort and function.
- Psychological Counseling: Mental health support is essential to help a person process the trauma they have experienced and adapt to changes in their life.
These treatments can last for months or years, and many victims face lifelong expenses related to their care.
How Amputation Injuries May Affect Victims
The impact of an amputation will last a lifetime. Victims often face long, painful recoveries, and they may need to make major changes to their lifestyles. Common challenges associated with amputations include:
- Physical Limitations: A person's mobility may be reduced, especially in cases involving leg or foot amputation. The loss of an arm or hand can affect a person's ability to perform essential daily tasks.
- Emotional Trauma: Depression, anxiety, and body image issues are common among amputees. Psychological counseling is often needed to cope with the trauma.
- Chronic Pain and Phantom Limb Syndrome: Ongoing pain, including sensations from the missing limb, can significantly affect a person's quality of life.
- Loss of Income: Many amputees are unable to return to their previous jobs, or they may be permanently disabled, affecting their financial resources.
Financial Compensation for an Amputation Injury
At Schwartz Injury Law, our attorneys can help ensure that a victim will be able to receive financial compensation that will reflect the full extent of the losses they have experienced due to an amputation injury. Compensation may include:
- Medical Expenses: All costs related to surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, prosthetics, and future medical care should be fully addressed.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Potential: Compensation can address the immediate and long-term impact of an amputation on the victim's ability to earn a living.
- Home and Vehicle Modifications: The costs of installing ramps, stair lifts, or other adaptive features to support independent living should be fully covered.
- Pain and Suffering: The physical pain and emotional distress caused by an amputation injury should be addressed in the compensation a victim receives.
- Loss of Quality of Life: Compensation can also account for the loss of the ability to engage in activities and hobbies and other issues that have led to emotional distress.
Contact Our Arlington Heights, IL Amputation Injury Lawyers
When an amputation injury has occurred due to an accident or act of negligence, victims will need to understand their legal options. At Schwartz Injury Law, our lawyers can provide the representation needed to secure full compensation for a person's damages. Contact our Arlington Heights amputation attorneys and set up a free consultation by calling 847-582-0157.