People involved in car crashes can sustain injuries that forever change the course of their lives. Some people hurt their brains or damage their spinal cords. Others might lose body parts because of what happens during or immediately after a crash.
A traumatic amputation occurs during a collision. Medical or surgical amputations typically follow collisions when doctors realize they cannot preserve a body part. Both types of limb loss can have devastating consequences. There are many long-term consequences associated with limb loss, including the three explained below.
Phantom limb pain
Nerve issues are common after amputations, especially traumatic amputations. People may continue to feel painful sensations as though the body part were still present. They may need medication and therapeutic services to help them limit their phantom limb pain.
Mental health consequences
Losing a body part is a traumatizing experience. Some people may develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after limb loss caused by a car crash. Others might develop depression symptoms because of the way their injury affects their overall life and appearance. Many people coping with limb loss need mental health support while they adjust and possibly for years afterward.
The need for mobility devices or prosthetics
Some people assume that a prosthetic limb is a one-time purchase. However, these highly-costly medical devices typically require replacement every few years. The type of limb and numerous other details determine how frequently replacement is necessary. Some people opt for mobility enhancement devices instead of prosthetics. Even then, they may need to regularly replace those devices as they age.
Those adjusting to life with amputations after car crashes may need help covering their expenses. Reviewing the situation with a lawyer can help people estimate their losses and look into different options for covering their costs.