Any accident injury can cause significant pain and suffering and impact your daily life, but amputations are lifelong injuries that require continuous care. Losing a leg in an accident is not something you will ever fully recover from. If you have recently experienced an amputation accident, you may be considering a settlement to help you reach your recovery goals. If so, it is recommended that you speak with an accident attorney before you accept a settlement offer.
Loss of Limb Settlement
If you have been discussing your claim or negotiating with an insurance company, you must keep in mind that they are not on your side. The representative or adjuster you speak to may be friendly and seem empathetic, but their only loyalty is to the company. Because insurance companies are for-profit businesses, their priority is to their bottom line.
Insurers often present low-ball offers to injured parties in an effort to save money and appease unrepresented victims. It is tempting to accept the first offer you receive. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of a catastrophic injury is severe. However, it is a good idea to consider the lifelong expenses and consequences of an amputated leg.
Settlement Amounts for Losing a Leg by Amputation
There are two types of amputation: traumatic and surgical. You experience a traumatic amputation when the accident amputates your leg. Surgical amputation happens when the accident renders your leg unsalvageable.
In both situations, the risk of complications and tremendous chronic symptoms impact an accident victim’s life. Complications include:
- Loss of blood
- Soft tissue damage
- Infection
- Shock
- Phantom limb pain
- Depression
Before you agree to a settlement amount, think about how the injury has affected you thus far, as well as how it will impact your future.
Questions to Ask Before Accepting a Settlement Offer
You can work with your attorney to calculate the full value of your injury and what you consider to be a fair settlement amount. It can also be helpful to ask yourself the following questions:
- Will I need vehicle modifications?
- Does my house need renovations to be accessible to me?
- Will I use a wheelchair, walker, or prosthetic?
- What will the ongoing costs of maintenance and replacement be for this adaptive equipment?
- What future medical expenses will I incur from losing my leg?
- Can I work after this injury?
- Will I be able to continue in my chosen profession?
Dedicated Legal Representation for Your Amputation Case
If you are considering filing a claim or agreeing to a settlement for your amputated leg, contact Flanagan Law for compassionate and experienced representation. We can help you determine if the settlement is fair and negotiate for a higher amount that will better suit the true costs of your injury. Schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys today.
