Amputation Lawyer in Atlanta: Settlement Specialists

UNDERSTANDING AMPUTATION INJURIES

Amputation injuries are catastrophic events that can have a profound impact on a person’s life. Losing a limb can result in significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges. These injuries can stem from various causes, including accidents, medical malpractice, and negligence. Amputation injuries can be classified into partial and complete amputations; a complete amputation involves a limb being entirely severed from the body, highlighting the severity and implications of such injuries. The physical toll of an amputation injury often includes the need for extensive surgery, rehabilitation, and the use of prosthetic limbs. Emotionally, the loss of a limb can lead to feelings of grief, depression, and anxiety. Financially, the costs of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lost wages can be overwhelming. Understanding the complexities of amputation injuries is crucial in seeking fair compensation and navigating the recovery process.

CAUSES OF AMPUTATION INJURIES

Amputation injuries can occur due to various reasons, including:

• Traumatic accidents: Car crashes, falls, or workplace accidents can result in the sudden and unexpected loss of a limb.
• Medical malpractice: Surgical errors, misdiagnosis, or delayed treatment can lead to the need for surgical amputation.
• Negligence: Failure to maintain equipment or provide proper care can result in severe injuries requiring amputation. The impact of someone else’s negligence can be devastating, leading to significant financial and emotional tolls on victims.
• Infections, diseases, or vascular conditions: These medical issues can necessitate surgical amputation to prevent further health complications.
• Product liability: Defective products or equipment can cause injuries that lead to amputation.

Identifying the cause of an amputation injury is essential in determining liability and seeking compensation. An experienced attorney can help investigate the circumstances and hold the responsible parties accountable.

ATLANTA AMPUTATION LAWSUITS & LOSS OF LIMB SETTLEMENTS

Any catastrophic injury is life-changing. Amputation injuries bring unique challenges to the accident victim, typically including the following:

• Loss of a limb
• Need for surgery and rehabilitation
• Need for occupational therapy and physical therapy
• Need for prosthesis
• Ongoing pain in many cases
• “Phantom pains” that communicate with the brain as if the amputated limb were still in place
• In many cases, inability to continue doing various things that were once an integral part of a person’s life
• In some cases, inability to continue at the same job as before

Amputation injury cases are complex and require specialized legal representation to navigate the legal requirements and prove liability.

Experienced Atlanta amputation injury lawyers of Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC, are prepared to take up the fight on behalf of amputation injury victims. Traumatic amputation often occurs due to accidents or injuries, and we work hard to help adults and children who have lost limbs to obtain compensation due to them from responsible parties: negligent motorists, power tool manufacturers and health insurers, for example. Contact us to schedule a free initial consultation regarding loss of a limb in Georgia.

PROVING LIABILITY AND NEGLIGENCE IN AMPUTATION CASES

Proving liability and negligence in amputation cases can be a complex and challenging process. To establish liability, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant’s actions or omissions caused the amputation injury. This often involves gathering substantial evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, and expert testimony, to show that the defendant breached their duty of care.

In cases of medical malpractice, the plaintiff must prove that the healthcare provider deviated from the accepted standard of care, resulting in the amputation injury. This could involve showing that the healthcare provider failed to diagnose or treat a condition properly, or that they performed a surgical procedure incorrectly. Expert testimony is often crucial in these cases to establish what the standard of care should have been and how the provider failed to meet it.

For traumatic amputation cases, the plaintiff must demonstrate that the defendant’s negligence or recklessness directly caused the accident or injury leading to the amputation. This might involve proving that the defendant failed to follow safety protocols, operated a vehicle or machinery recklessly, or otherwise acted in a manner that put others at risk. An experienced Atlanta amputation attorney can help gather the necessary evidence and build a compelling case to hold the responsible parties accountable.

COMPENSATION AND DAMAGES FOR AMPUTATION INJURIES

Amputation injuries can result in significant economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages typically include medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. These are tangible costs that can be documented and quantified. Non-economic damages, on the other hand, encompass pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life, which are more subjective but equally important.

In addition to these immediate damages, amputation survivors may also be entitled to compensation for future medical expenses, such as ongoing treatments and prosthetic devices, as well as home modifications to accommodate their new needs. They may also seek compensation for lost earning capacity if the amputation injury prevents them from returning to their previous job or earning a living in the same capacity.

Experienced Atlanta amputation attorneys can help survivors navigate the complex process of seeking compensation and damages for their injuries. They work with medical experts and economists to determine the full extent of the damages and advocate on behalf of the survivor to ensure they receive the maximum compensation available. This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the survivor’s needs are addressed, providing a more secure future.

THE CLAIMS PROCESS FOR AMPUTATION INJURY LAWSUITS

The claims process for amputation injury lawsuits typically begins with a free consultation with an experienced Atlanta amputation attorney. During this initial meeting, the attorney will review the facts of the case, assess the viability of the claim, and discuss potential legal strategies.

If the attorney determines that the survivor has a viable claim, they will begin the process of gathering evidence and building a case. This involves obtaining medical records, collecting witness statements, and securing expert testimony to support the claim. The attorney will also work closely with the survivor to document the full extent of their damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress.

Once the case is thoroughly prepared, the attorney will file a lawsuit on behalf of the survivor. The lawsuit will allege that the defendant’s negligence or recklessness caused the amputation injury and seek compensation for the survivor’s damages. The defendant will then have the opportunity to respond to the lawsuit and present their defense.

The case may proceed to trial if a settlement cannot be reached. During the trial, a jury will determine whether the defendant is liable for the survivor’s damages and, if so, the amount of compensation the survivor is entitled to receive. Throughout this process, the experienced Atlanta amputation attorney will advocate on behalf of the survivor, ensuring their rights are protected and they receive the compensation they deserve.

HOW LONG DOES AN INJURY LAWSUIT FOR AN AMPUTATION TAKE IN GEORGIA?

The average personal injury lawsuit takes one to two years to get to trial. The trial itself can take several additional weeks. However, almost all personal injury claims are settled in negotiation. Only about 5% of personal injury cases go all the way to trial. The length of time your claim takes to resolve will be dependent on the extent of injury and other considerations unique to your situation. The best way to determine how long your claim will take to settle is by talking with a qualified and experienced amputation injury lawyer.

HOW IS A GEORGIA AMPUTATION INJURY SETTLEMENT PAID OUT?

Personal injury settlements can be paid out as a lump sum or as a structured settlement. Structured settlements provide payment over the course of several years, helping to ensure a continual source of income. Lump sum payments are made all at once. In both cases, what you agree to and settle on will comprise the entirety of your compensation. This is typically much higher when you work with a personal injury lawyer.

WHO SHOULD I SUE FOR AN AMPUTATION INJURY IF IT WAS DUE TO MEDICAL MALPRACTICE?

Establishing liability in an amputation case requires an investigation into the cause of the accident. Hiring professional liability attorneys is crucial in such cases, as they have the expertise to handle complex legal matters involving severe injuries like amputations. When you hire a personal injury lawyer, their firm will conduct the investigation. In some cases, accident reconstructionists and other professionals are brought in to help establish liability, which may fall to another individual, a company, or even a government entity. Without an investigation, it may be impossible to know who is liable for the accident.

CAN YOU REOPEN AN AMPUTATION INJURY CASE IN ATLANTA AFTER A SETTLEMENT?

If you settled informally, you may be able to reopen an amputation injury case, but in most cases, accepting a settlement will bar you from taking additional legal action. This is one of the primary reasons you should talk to a lawyer before you accept a settlement. Insurance companies are infamous for underpaying victims of serious injury. To know what your claim is actually worth, you need someone tackling the case from your perspective. Without an attorney, you are at the mercy of the insurance company and their attorneys.

IS THERE A TIME LIMIT FOR FILING AN AMPUTATION INJURY LAWSUIT IN GEORGIA LAW?

You have two years from the date of your accident to file an amputation injury lawsuit. We strongly encourage you to take action long before the statute of limitations expires. When you wait to file a claim, it can become more complicated to determine where fault should lie. The sooner your lawyer can get to work investigating your claim, the better your chances of a successful action. This is something that can be discussed in greater detail during your complimentary consultation.

HOW LONG DOES AN INJURY LAWSUIT FOR AN AMPUTATION TAKE IN GEORGIA?

The average personal injury lawsuit takes one to two years to get to trial. The trial itself can take several additional weeks. However, almost all personal injury claims are settled in negotiation. Only about 5% of personal injury cases go all the way to trial. The length of time your claim takes to resolve will be dependent on the extent of injury and other considerations unique to your situation. The best way to determine how long your claim will take to settle is by talking with a qualified and experienced amputation injury lawyer.

HOW IS A GEORGIA AMPUTATION INJURY SETTLEMENT PAID OUT?

Personal injury settlements can be paid out as a lump sum or as a structured settlement. Structured settlements provide payment over the course of several years, helping to ensure a continual source of income. Lump sum payments are made all at once. In both cases, what you agree to and settle on will comprise the entirety of your compensation. This is typically much higher when you work with a personal injury lawyer.

WHO SHOULD I SUE FOR AN AMPUTATION INJURY IF IT WAS DUE TO MEDICAL MALPRACTICE?

Establishing liability in an amputation case requires an investigation into the cause of the accident. Hiring professional liability attorneys is crucial in such cases, as they have the expertise to handle complex legal matters involving severe injuries like amputations. When you hire a personal injury lawyer, their firm will conduct the investigation. In some cases, accident reconstructionists and other professionals are brought in to help establish liability, which may fall to another individual, a company, or even a government entity. Without an investigation, it may be impossible to know who is liable for the accident.

CAN YOU REOPEN AN AMPUTATION INJURY CASE IN ATLANTA AFTER A SETTLEMENT?

If you settled informally, you may be able to reopen an amputation injury case, but in most cases, accepting a settlement will bar you from taking additional legal action. This is one of the primary reasons you should talk to a lawyer before you accept a settlement. Insurance companies are infamous for underpaying victims of serious injury. To know what your claim is actually worth, you need someone tackling the case from your perspective. Without an attorney, you are at the mercy of the insurance company and their attorneys.

IS THERE A TIME LIMIT FOR FILING AN AMPUTATION INJURY LAWSUIT IN GEORGIA LAW?

You have two years from the date of your accident to file an amputation injury lawsuit. We strongly encourage you to take action long before the statute of limitations expires. When you wait to file a claim, it can become more complicated to determine where fault should lie. The sooner your lawyer can get to work investigating your claim, the better your chances of a successful action. This is something that can be discussed in greater detail during your complimentary consultation.

REHABILITATION AND SUPPORT FOR AMPUTATION VICTIMS

Rehabilitation and support are critical components of the recovery process for amputation victims, especially considering the severe emotional and physical impact of traumatic injuries. Amputation survivors may require:

• Physical therapy: To regain strength and mobility, helping individuals adapt to life without a limb.
• Occupational therapy: To learn how to use new prosthetic limbs and perform daily activities.
• Emotional support: To cope with the psychological impact of amputation, including counseling and support groups.
• Financial assistance: To cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages.
• Access to support groups and resources: To connect with other amputation survivors and share experiences.

Experienced Atlanta amputation attorneys can help victims navigate the rehabilitation process and ensure they receive the necessary support and compensation. They can connect clients with resources and advocate for their rights throughout the recovery journey.

AVOIDING COSTLY MISTAKES IN AMPUTATION INJURY CASES

Amputation injury cases can be complex and challenging, and survivors often make costly mistakes that can harm their chances of receiving fair compensation. One of the most common mistakes is failing to seek medical attention immediately after the injury. Prompt medical care is crucial not only for the survivor’s health but also for establishing a clear link between the injury and the amputation, which is essential for the legal case.

Another frequent mistake is failing to document the injury and its aftermath thoroughly. This includes taking photos of the injury, keeping detailed records of medical expenses and lost wages, and documenting the emotional and psychological impact of the injury. Comprehensive documentation can significantly strengthen the case and support the claim for compensation.

Survivors may also make the mistake of accepting a settlement offer from the defendant without consulting with an experienced Atlanta amputation attorney. Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, and accepting an early settlement can result in the survivor receiving far less compensation than they are entitled to. Additionally, accepting a settlement typically bars the survivor from seeking further compensation in the future.

Experienced Atlanta amputation attorneys can help survivors avoid these costly mistakes and ensure they receive the fair compensation they deserve. They work with survivors to gather evidence, build a strong case, and advocate on their behalf to ensure they receive the maximum compensation available. By partnering with a knowledgeable attorney, survivors can navigate the legal process more effectively and secure a more favorable outcome.

WHAT TO DO AFTER AN AMPUTATION INJURY

If you or a loved one has suffered an amputation injury, it is essential to take immediate action to protect your rights and seek fair compensation. Here are some steps to take:

• Seek medical attention immediately: Ensure proper treatment and care to prevent further complications.
• Document the incident: Take photos, gather witness statements, and keep detailed medical records to support your case.
• Consult with an experienced Atlanta amputation attorney: Discuss your options, determine liability, and develop a legal strategy.
• File a personal injury claim or lawsuit: Seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
• Take advantage of free consultations and support services: Navigate the recovery process with the help of professionals who understand the complexities of amputation injuries.

Remember, amputation injuries can have a lifelong impact on a person’s life. Seeking fair compensation and support is crucial in ensuring a smooth recovery and a secure future. An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

WE ARE PREPARED FOR THE FIGHT

As former insurance defense attorneys, we are ahead of the game when it comes to knowing what it takes to get the insurance benefits and compensation for pain and suffering to which an amputation victim is entitled. Our clients have suffered loss of body parts in serious accidents such as the following:

• Auto accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• MARTA accidents
• Medical mistakes resulting in amputation
• Nursing home negligence such as decubitus ulcers (bedsores) resulting in compartment syndrome and amputation
• Amputation caused by use of dangerous and defective products
• Construction accidents including crane accidents and heavy machinery accidents

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS:

• “The best Law Firm, Stephen Chance, Suzanne Fink and Sharon Lylerly are a wonderful team. They took a personal interest in my case and represented me to a successful outcome. They are very dedicated and gave great advice to all questions and concerns. Thanks for the great work !!!!” – M.S.
• “From the first time I met Stephen Chance I knew he was a man of integrity, compassion and empathy. Our’s was not a very strong or enticing case. And most attorneys would probably had walked away from us but for whatever reason, he agreed to take it on. Throughout the approximately two year working with him he was patient and kind, he truly cared about us and was always open and honest with us.” – J.M.
• “My family and I are so thankful that we had this firm on our side. Joe Watkins, Suzanne Fink and Linda Jordan were amazing to work with. They are compassionate, hardworking, and were there for us every step of the way.” – M.D.

Find out about successful cases we have handled or read our testimonials.

CONTACT OUR EXPERT ATLANTA AMPUTATION ATTORNEYS — FREE CONSULTATIONS

Have you or a loved one suffered an accidental injury causing amputation? Take up the fight. Contact an Atlanta experienced amputation lawyer at Chance, Forlines, Carter & King, PC today at to schedule your free consultation.