At Roche Legal, we recognise that amputation injuries are profoundly life-altering events that extend far beyond the immediate physical trauma. Losing a limb or digit has wide-ranging implications for your daily life, mental health, and financial stability. If you or a loved one has experienced an amputation due to an accident or negligence, it’s crucial to understand the full scope of these injuries and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Types of Amputation
- Below-the-Knee vs. Above-the-Knee Amputation: An amputation below the knee generally allows for easier adaptation with a prosthetic limb compared to an above-the-knee amputation. Below-the-knee amputees retain more of their natural leg function, making it easier to use a prosthesis and maintain balance. In contrast, above-the-knee amputations involve more significant adjustments and require a more complex prosthetic, which can affect walking and mobility more profoundly.
- Arm Amputations: Amputation of an arm can occur at various levels, including below the elbow, above the elbow, or at the shoulder. Each level has different implications for functionality and prosthetic needs. Below-elbow amputations leave more of the arm’s functionality intact, while above-elbow and shoulder amputations require more sophisticated prosthetic solutions and significant adjustments to daily activities.
- Thumb vs. Finger Amputations: Losing a thumb has a substantial impact on hand function since it is crucial for gripping and manipulating objects. Finger amputations, while still significant, may have a lesser impact on grip strength depending on which finger is lost.
Phantom Pain and Psychological Impact
Many amputees experience phantom pain, where they feel pain in the area where the limb once was. This condition can be distressing and requires ongoing management.
Additionally, the psychological toll of losing a limb includes adjusting to a new body image and dealing with potential depression and anxiety.
Prosthetics and Financial Implications
Prosthetic limbs are essential for regaining function but come with significant costs. High-quality prosthetics can be extremely expensive and often require regular replacement or adjustments over time. This ongoing financial burden can be substantial, and not all lawyers fully appreciate the long-term costs associated with prosthetics.
Case Example: In 2021, the court awarded a 31-year-old plaintiff approximately $850,000 for the cost of prosthetics alone (for a below-the-knee amputation).[1]
An amputation injury claim is complex and requires a thorough understanding of the associated expenses, including the high cost of prosthetics, medical care, and potential adjustments to your home or vehicle. Lawyers who don’t fully grasp these details might not account for all necessary compensation, leaving you financially shortchanged.
At Roche Legal, we are dedicated to ensuring that your claim reflects the full extent of your needs. We work with experts to accurately assess the cost of prosthetics, long-term medical care, and any other expenses related to your injury. Our goal is to secure fair compensation that covers not just immediate medical costs but also the long-term financial impact of living with an amputation.
If you or a loved one has suffered an amputation due to negligence or an accident, contact Roche Legal today for a comprehensive evaluation of your case. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your claim and ensure that you receive the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
[1] Bosk v Burgess & Anor (QBE Insurance) [2021] QSC 338