Each year, several motorcyclists need their legs amputated after collisions. It happens to those in other vehicles too, but motorcyclists’ legs are much more exposed.
Clearly, this is one of the worst things that could happen to you because losing a leg reduces your mobility and prevents you from doing certain things, such as kicking a ball with your kids or climbing a ladder for work.
If you watch the Paralympics or live near a hospital frequented by war vets, you’ll know that you may eventually improve your mobility with the help of prosthetic limbs, therapy and sheer determination. What some people never manage to get over is the psychological harm an amputation can cause.
The emotional consequences are severe
When you look down and see part of you is missing, it can have a massive effect on your well-being and mental health. Amputees can suffer from depression, anxiety, insomnia, self-hate, feelings of inadequacy and more. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is also a real possibility.
Infection is also a heightened risk
Cutting off a limb leaves your body wide open to infection. Doctors and nurses need to stay on the ball to ensure you don’t pick up anything and treat anything you do catch. Remember, sepsis, which can occur when the body tries to fight an infection, is the leading cause of death in the U.S.
All in all, an amputation is a massive blow with a variety of catastrophic consequences. If it happens to you, make sure to get legal help to claim the full amount of compensation you’ll need.