Going through a traumatic amputation can be so intense that shock can set in and increase the chances of death. Infections are another major risk factor associated with traumatic amputations. Knowing what basic steps to take until paramedics arrive can be vital. You can also contact a New York City amputation attorney to figure out your legal options for compensation.

Ways to Manage a Traumatic Amputation

One of the most important traumatic amputation first aid steps is to call 911 for paramedics. Seeking professional medical help as soon as possible is extremely important for the safety of the person with the

accidental amputation. The most dangerous risk factors are bleeding out, death from shock, and deadly infections.

These are the three main risk factors that first aid can be applied to increase the chances of positive outcomes. Bleeding should be stopped in sterile ways to reduce the chances of infection. Washing your hands before attempting to stop the bleeding is highly recommended along with only using sterile cloths and materials to stop the bleeding.

Tying a tourniquet is a common practice. Elevating the site of the bleeding is also helpful for reducing the rate of bleeding. Direct pressure is usually applied for about 15 minutes before bleeding slows down. However, applying direct pressure might be needed until paramedics arrive.

Check and address signs of shock like pale skin, dizziness, fainting, weakness, and confusion. Heavy blood loss, severe pain, and the circumstances can all induce shock. Keep the person talking and thinking to keep them from passing out.

If the amputated body part is intact, then reattachment could be possible. Rinse off the amputated body part, wrap the part in a sterile bag, and place the body part in ice. This will prevent tissue deterioration and infections that could prevent reattachment.

Can I Sue for a Traumatic Amputation?

Many people wonder if and when they can sue for a traumatic amputation. Suing for a traumatic amputation would mean filing a personal injury claim, something that requires someone else to be at fault. Whether the amputation was caused at work, in a car accident, or on someone's property, the ability to sue depends on negligence.

If someone else was partially at fault for your traumatic amputation, then you could sue them for damages. This includes damages like medical expenses, emotional distress, pain and suffering, lost wages, and lost earning capacity. Some people may have to suffer lost income because they can no longer work the same job due to the loss of a limb.

Try contacting a New York City injury lawyer to explore what legal steps this requires. You could receive substantial compensation.

New York City Amputation Lawyer

You might not have to pay for your traumatic amputation expenses yourself. Call the Sullivan and Brill Law Firm at (212) 566-1000 to talk to a New York personal injury attorney for a free consultation. Our New York City legal team can help increase your chances of compensation for lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and medical costs. We are located in New York City, Long Island, Kings, Bronx, Queens, Richmond, Nassau, Suffolk, Westchester, and Rockland Counties, and San Juan, Puerto Rico.