Have you or a loved one experienced the devastating effects of an amputation injury? Contact our Happy Valley amputaiton injury attorneys at (503) 831-9930 today for a free consultation
Don't suffer in silence - take action now to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
According to the amputation coalition, approximately 185,000 amputations occur in the United States each year. [1]
Types of Amputations
Amputation is the surgical or traumatic removal of a limb or extremity from the body. There are many different types of amputations, but they can be broadly categorized into two types: upper-extremity amputations and lower-extremity amputations.
Upper extremity amputations involve the removal of part or all of the arm or hand. Upper extremity amputations include:
- Above-elbow
- Below-elbow
- Elbow
- Finger
- Hand
- Wrist
Lower extremity amputations involve the removal of part or all of the leg or foot. Lower extremity amputations include:
- Above-knee
- Below-knee
- Foot
- Knee
- Toe
The type of amputation that is performed will depend on the specific circumstances of the patient's case. Factors such as the cause of the amputation, the extent of the damage to the limb, and the patient's overall health will all be considered when deciding on the best course of treatment.
Causes of Amputation Injuries in Happy Valley
Amputation injuries are devastating and life-altering events that can occur due to various causes. Common causes include:
- Workplace Accidents: Workplace accidents are a leading cause of amputation injuries. [2] They can happen in industries such as manufacturing, construction, and mining, where workers are exposed to heavy machinery and hazardous conditions. Accidents involving equipment entanglement, being caught between objects, or being struck by heavy objects can lead to traumatic amputations.
- Medical Malpractice: Medical malpractice can also result in severe injuries leading to amputations. Errors during surgical procedures, misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis of vascular disease, or failure to provide appropriate medical treatment can lead to the loss of a limb.
- Explosions and Fires: Explosions and fires can cause severe damage to the body, including amputation injuries. These incidents can occur in industrial settings, chemical plants, or even in homes due to gas leaks or faulty electrical wiring.
- Crush Injuries: Crush injuries, such as those caused by motor vehicle accidents, truck accidents, industrial accidents, motorcycle accidents, or severe burn injuries, can also lead to limb loss.
75% of upper body amputations are from a traumatic injury. [3]
Impact of Amputation Injuries on Victims
The impact of amputation injuries on victims is profound and life-changing. Not only do individuals have to deal with the physical limitations and challenges that come with losing a limb, but they also face emotional, psychological, and financial burdens, as outlined below:
- Altered Body Image
- Career and Employment Challenges
- Changing Roles
- Emotional Trauma
- Financial Strain
- Impact on Daily Activities
- Loss of Independence
- Phantom Limb Pain
- Prosthetic Adjustments
- Psychological Impact
- Rehabilitation Challenges
- Scarring
Statute of Limitations for Filing an Amputation Injury Case in Oregon
The Statute of Limitations applies to personal injury cases, including amputation injuries. It sets a time limit for amputation claims to be filed within and missing the deadline can prevent a person from effectively seeking compensation for their losses.
The time limit for filing an amputation injury case is two years in Happy Valley, Oregon, as well as most parts of the United States. However, there are exceptions to this rule.
For instance, if a government entity is responsible for the accident, victims may have a shorter time window to file a personal injury claim. Medical malpractice cases often have separate time limitations that may differ from the standard two-year deadline.
Contact our personal injury lawyers in Happy Valley with any questions regarding the time limits that apply to your specific situation.
Why Do I Need a Happy Valley Amputation Injury Lawyer?
After experiencing an amputation injury, seek the assistance of our amputation injury attorney. Here is how working with us can significantly help your case:
- Expertise: Our legal team has decades of experience in handling catastrophic injury cases and can provide invaluable support during the aftermath of such a traumatic event.
- Investigation: We have extensive experience and the resources to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and reconstruct the events surrounding the incident. This investigation is essential in determining liability and identifying the responsible party, which is important for building a strong case.
- Litigation: We have a deep understanding of the legal system and can navigate the intricate procedures and paperwork involved in an amputation injury claim. This ensures that all necessary documents are filed correctly and within the designated time frames.
- Negotiation: Insurance companies often try to minimize their payouts, even in cases as severe as amputation injuries. We will negotiate with insurance companies to secure a fair settlement that covers medical costs, physical therapy, future expenses, loss of income, loss of enjoyment of life, mental anguish, and emotional distress.
- Trial: In some cases, a trial may be necessary to achieve justice. Our personal injury lawyers will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case and advocating for the maximum possible compensation.
Our Hard-Hitting Attorneys Are Ready To Fight for Your Rights.
Reach out to Goldberg & Loren today to begin your journey to getting a fair and just outcome. Don't pay us unless we win!
Sources:
[1] Limb Loss Statistics - Amputee Coalition. (2017, August 1). Amputee Coalition. https://www.amputee-coalition.org/resources/limb-loss-statistics/
[2] Meat and poultry companies remain among the most dangerous. (n.d.). Economic Policy Institute. https://www.epi.org/blog/an-average-of-27-workers-a-day-suffer-amputation-or-hospitalization-according-to-new-osha-data-from-29-states-meat-and-poultry-companies-remain-among-the-most-dangerous
[3] Causes. (2017, September 11). Stanford Health Care. https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/bones-joints-and-muscles/amputation/causes.html
