If you or a loved one has undergone an amputation as a result of clinical negligence, this may give rise to a potential claim. Clinical negligence arises where a healthcare professional or medical provider has failed to meet the standard of care expected of them, and that failure has resulted in injury.
Our team of experienced medical negligence solicitors can assess your circumstances, advise you on your legal options, and guide you through the claims process.
How to start an amputation compensation claim
The first step in making an amputation negligence claim is to contact Michael Boylan Litigation for an initial consultation. We will review the facts of your case, including the treatment you received and the outcome.
Key information typically includes:
- your medical records
- details of any surgical or clinical procedures
- correspondence with healthcare providers
- reports from independent medical experts
Each case is assessed on its own merits to determine whether negligence can be established.
What can compensation cover?
Compensation in amputation negligence cases is intended to address both the physical and financial consequences of the injury. Damages are usually divided into general damages and special damages.
General damages
These compensate for:
- pain and suffering
- loss of amenity
- the overall impact of the injury on your quality of life
Special damages
These may include:
- past and future medical expenses
- prosthetics and rehabilitation
- loss of earnings and future earning capacity
- home adaptations and mobility aids
- care and assistance (professional or family)
- psychological support and counselling
Time limits for bringing an amputation claim
Under the Statute of Limitations (Amendment) Act 1991, you generally have two years to bring a medical negligence claim.
This period usually runs from the date of knowledge, which is the date when you first became aware, or ought reasonably to have become aware, that:
- you had suffered an injury, and
- the injury was attributable to negligent medical treatment
Strict time limits apply, so early legal advice is essential.
How much compensation can be awarded?
The level of compensation depends on factors such as:
- the severity of the amputation
- its impact on your daily life and independence
- your ability to work
- your future medical and care needs
Irish courts must have regard to the Personal Injuries Guidelines issued by the Judicial Council. These Guidelines apply to medical negligence claims, including amputation cases, and they provide an indication of likely general damages.
Indicative general damages (Guidelines)
Leg amputation
- Loss of both legs: €280,000 to €400,000
- Below-knee amputation of both legs or feet: €200,000 to €300,000
- Above-knee amputation of one leg: €120,000 to €160,000
- Below-knee amputation of one leg or loss of one foot: €100,000 to €140,000
Arm amputation
- Loss of both arms: €300,000 to €475,000
- Amputation of one arm at the shoulder: €140,000 to €230,000
- Amputation of one arm above the elbow: €120,000 to €175,000
- Amputation of one arm below the elbow: €100,000 to €150,000
These figures relate to general damages only and do not include special damages such as loss of earnings, future care, prosthetics, or home modifications, which can significantly increase the overall value of a claim.
Speak to our medical negligence solicitors
The loss of a limb due to clinical negligence may give rise to a medical negligence claim. Our solicitors can advise you on whether a claim is viable and represent you throughout the legal process.
We aim to provide clear, practical advice and to pursue appropriate compensation where negligence can be established.
Call us on (+353) 1 901 7418, email ciara@michaelboylan.com, or use the contact form on this page for a confidential consultation.
