Amputations are some of the most serious injuries that can result from a motorcycle accident. The force of the crash can easily throw a rider from his or her bike with enough force to shatter limbs beyond repair, forcing a surgical amputation in the emergency room. Similarly, a finger or hand can be trapped between two metal objects and severed during the crash.
The physical pain and emotional trauma can be intense in the immediate aftermath of an amputation injury, and making the transition to life without a limb can be difficult.
From Operation to Rehabilitation
You can expect to undergo one or more surgeries in order to clean up your wound site and make sure it heals properly. Of course, the precise number of such operations, their invasiveness, and the pain you will undergo will vary depending on the limb you have lost and the specifics of your particular case.
Initial rehabilitation sessions can begin almost immediately following your surgery. At the start you will be learning how to carry out your activities of daily living with an amputated arm or leg. The specific program will be tailored to your special needs; for instance, if you lost your dominant hand or arm, you will have help learning to write with your other hand.
During this time, your residual limb will complete its healing and form durable scar tissue. This can take several weeks, and the area can be swollen and tender throughout the period. You should expect that you will not be fitted for a permanent prosthesis until healing is nearly complete.
Get the Prosthetic That Is Right For You
Prosthetic devices and appliances are now widely available to replace missing limbs and digits. The least expensive options are generally only cosmetic, but modern engineering is readily developing replacement limbs that allow ever-improving control, gripping strength, flexibility, and range of motion. Of course, the price rises as the device becomes more complex. Additionally, it requires a longer rehabilitation time to get used to more complicated prostheses. Finally, one must remember that all prosthetic replacements will periodically show signs of wear and will need to be maintained, repaired, and eventually replaced.
Even though many of the details of your life may change after your amputation, a prosthetic hand, arm, or leg can allow you to continue to lead a mobile, meaningful, and enjoyable life. Your attitude will be an important part in speeding your recovery along. You may find it is helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor during this transitional period.
After a prosthetic limb has been customized for your body, you will enter a second period of physical rehabilitation—this time, to allow you to get used to your new prosthesis. Also at this time, it is common for patients to begin occupational therapy or job training, if your amputation will make you unable to resume your former career.
Damages in Motorcycle Accident Amputation Cases
Of course, every legal case is different, and there is no blanket formula for calculating what compensation the victim of a motorcycle amputation accident should recover. Depending on the details of the case, you may be able to recover for:
- Personal disfigurement.
- Emotional distress and psychological counseling.
- Disability.
- Diminished quality of life.
- Long-term physical therapy and rehabilitation.
These damages would be in addition to damages that you could recover for past, current and future medical costs, lost income, and out-of-pocket costs.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle amputation accident then you need to arrange for legal representation as soon as possible. Your time to file a lawsuit is limited. Take action today by starting a live chat with us now.
