How Do I Make an Amputation Compensation Claim?
Suffering an amputation is one of the most devastating injuries anyone can experience. Whether it results from a serious accident, medical negligence, or an injury at work, the physical, emotional and financial impact can be life changing. If the amputation was caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to make a compensation claim.
At Edwards Duthie Shamash, our experienced personal injury solicitors support clients through this difficult process, helping them secure the compensation and rehabilitation they need to rebuild their lives.
In this article, we explain what’s involved in making an amputation compensation claim in the UK, including the steps you should take, the type of damages you can recover, and how specialist legal advice can make all the difference.
What is an Amputation Claim?
An amputation compensation claim is a legal action taken by an individual who has lost a limb due to the fault or negligence of another person, company, or medical professional. Claims can cover the loss of:
- Arms or hands
- Legs or feet
- Fingers or toes
Compensation is intended not only to recognise the pain and suffering caused, but also to provide financial support for future needs, such as prosthetics, rehabilitation, adaptations to the home, and loss of earnings.
Common Causes of Amputation Injuries
Amputation injuries can occur in many different situations. Some of the most common include:
- Road traffic accidents – severe car, motorbike, or lorry accidents may result in traumatic amputations.
- Workplace accidents – particularly in construction, manufacturing or agricultural settings involving heavy machinery.
- Medical negligence – such as delays in diagnosing infections, sepsis, or conditions like diabetes, which can lead to avoidable amputations.
- Serious accidents in public places – for example, crush injuries or defective equipment causing severe trauma.
If your amputation occurred in circumstances where someone else was responsible, you may have grounds to pursue a claim.
How do I Make an Amputation Compensation Claim?
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention
Your health and recovery should always come first. Ensure you receive the necessary treatment, rehabilitation and support as quickly as possible.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
Evidence is crucial in building a strong claim. This can include:
- Medical records and reports
- Photographs of the injury
- Witness statements
- Accident reports (for workplace or road accidents)
Step 3: Contact a Specialist Solicitor
Amputation claims are complex and often involve large amounts of compensation to cover lifelong needs. It is essential to instruct an experienced solicitor who specialises in serious injury claims. At Edwards Duthie Shamash, we work on a No Win, No Fee basis, giving you peace of mind when pursuing your case.
Step 4: Establish Liability
Your solicitor will investigate the circumstances of your injury to prove that another party was at fault. This may involve expert reports, accident reconstruction, or medical opinion.
Step 5: Calculate Your Compensation
Compensation (known as damages) is calculated by considering:
- General damages – compensation for pain, suffering, and loss of amenity.
- Special damages – covering financial losses such as:
- Loss of earnings (past and future)
- Cost of prosthetics
- Rehabilitation and physiotherapy
- Adaptations to your home or vehicle
- Care and support needs
Step 6: Negotiate or Issue Proceedings
Most claims settle through negotiation, but, if necessary, your solicitor may issue court proceedings to secure the best outcome for you.
If you have been injured and your injury has resulted in part of your body being amputated then you may be eligible for compensation. Our experienced personal injury solicitors are here to support you through this difficult process, helping you secure the compensation and rehabilitation you are entitled to.
How Much Compensation Could I Receive?
Every amputation claim is unique, and the amount of compensation depends on many factors, including the type of amputation, your age, the effect on your ability to work, and your ongoing care needs. For example:
- The loss of a finger may attract a lower award compared to the loss of a leg above the knee.
- Someone who requires lifelong prosthetics, ongoing medical care, and is unable to return to their previous employment is likely to receive a higher settlement.
The Judicial College Guidelines provide a starting point, but compensation is tailored to your individual circumstances.
What are the Time Limits for Bringing an Amputation Compensation Claim?
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident (or from when you first became aware of negligence) to bring an amputation compensation claim.
For children, the three-year time limit begins on their 18th birthday. For individuals lacking mental capacity, the time limit may not apply until capacity is regained.
It is always best to seek legal advice as soon as possible to ensure your claim is not time-barred.
Why Choose Edwards Duthie Shamash as your Amputation Claim Solicitors?
We understand the life-changing impact of an amputation and are committed to supporting you every step of the way. Our amputation claim lawyers offer:
- Specialist expertise in serious injury and medical negligence claims
- No Win, No Fee funding to protect you from financial risk
- Access to rehabilitation and support at the earliest possible stage
- A compassionate and client-focused approach
We don’t just fight for compensation – we help you access the care, equipment and support you need to move forward with your life.
Bradley Wright, our dedicated personal injury solicitor at Edwards Duthie Shamash, has extensive experience helping amputees recover compensation with care, clarity and professionalism.
Speak to Our Amputation Compensation Claims Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has suffered an amputation and believe someone else was at fault, contact Edwards Duthie Shamash today. Our experienced solicitors will provide clear, practical advice on your options and guide you through the claims process.
Making an amputation compensation claim may feel daunting, but you do not have to face it alone. With the right legal team by your side, you can secure the compensation, rehabilitation and long-term support you need to rebuild your independence and quality of life.
At Edwards Duthie Shamash, we are here to fight for your rights and your future.
Amputation Compensation Claims Frequently Asked Questions
You may be able to bring a claim if your amputation was caused by someone else’s negligence. This usually means another person or organisation owed you a duty of care, they failed in that duty, and as a result you suffered an injury leading to the loss of a limb. If those conditions apply, you are likely to have grounds for a claim.
In most cases, you have three years from the date of the accident or from the date you became aware that negligence caused your amputation. For children, the time limit does not begin until their 18th birthday, and for people who lack mental capacity, the time limit is suspended until capacity is regained. Because time limits are strict, it is always best to seek legal advice as early as possible.
The amount of compensation depends on the severity of the injury and its impact on your life. It usually includes general damages, which reflect your pain, suffering and the effect the amputation has on your day-to-day activities. It also includes special damages, which cover your financial losses such as lost earnings, the cost of prosthetics, ongoing care, rehabilitation and adaptations to your home or vehicle.
Yes. A claim can be brought on behalf of a child by their parent or guardian acting as a litigation friend, or on behalf of an adult who lacks the mental capacity to manage their own legal affairs. In cases where the injury has been fatal, the executor or administrator of the estate can pursue a claim for compensation on behalf of the deceased’s dependants.
Although you are not legally required to use a solicitor, it is highly advisable to work with a specialist who has experience in serious injury claims. Amputation cases are complex and often involve high-value settlements, so having expert guidance makes a significant difference. Edwards Duthie Shamash offer a No Win No Fee arrangement, which means you only pay legal fees if your claim is successful.