Loss Of Limb

Losing a limb is a devastating event with effects that transcend the obvious physical reality. Studies have shown that one out of every 200 individuals has undergone some form of amputation. Unfortunately, thousands of these amputation surgeries are caused by the negligence of malpractice of another individual or entity.

An amputation most commonly involves an individual’s leg(s), hand(s), foot, finger(s), toe(s) and/or arm(s).  Amputations are categorized as complete—total detachment from the body—or partial—leaving an anatomical structure, such as a ligament, tendon or muscle, intact between the body and the amputated anatomy.

Events that may lead to an amputation include:

• Car accidents 
• Truck accidents 
• Construction accidents 
• Explosions
• Electrocution 
• Pedestrian accidents 
• Premises accidents
• Injury from a defective product

Amputations can also be the result of medical malpractice or systemic disease. In the medical malpractice context, there have been reports of avoidable amputations due to a physician’s error in treating or operating on the wrong area of the patient’s body, failing to diagnose a condition, misdiagnosing a condition and/or failing to timely employ medical treatment to mitigate the severity of the condition.

Individuals who have undergone an amputation that was unnecessary or preventable can seek recovery for an array of damages, including medical bills, surgical procedures, pain and suffering, long-term care, life-long disability, and adaptive equipment. 

If you or someone you love has undergone an amputation due to the negligence of another party, please contact Slater Slater Schulman LLP for a free consultation by filling out the form on this page or by calling our office at (800) 251-6990.