UAE Court Awards Expat Dh655k After Tragic Leg Amputation
A 38-year-old Malayali expatriate has been awarded Dh655,341 in compensation following a devastating vehicle accident that resulted in the amputation of his leg. The legal settlement comes after a prolonged battle to secure damages for the life-altering injuries sustained during the incident.
A Devastating Accident in Ajman
Sudheer, a lift-technician supervisor originally from Varkala in Thiruvananthapuram, had been living and working in the UAE for 15 years. His life changed drastically in May 2025 while he was traveling to a worksite in Ajman.
According to reports, the driver of his company vehicle lost control of the vehicle, crashing into an electric pole and an elevated pedestrian walkway. The impact caused severe trauma to Sudheer, leading to a medical emergency that required immediate intervention.
Medical Emergency and Permanent Disability
Sudheer was rushed to the NMC Royal Hospital in Jebel Ali, where medical teams fought to save his limb. Despite their intensive efforts, doctors were forced to amputate his left leg below the knee. He also sustained significant injuries to his right leg, for which he continues to undergo medical treatment.
As the sole breadwinner for his wife and two children, the accident has not only taken a physical toll but has also created immense financial and psychological pressure on his family.
The Legal Battle for Fair Compensation
The journey to secure compensation has been a multi-stage legal process. Sudheer initially sought Dh1 million in damages to account for his loss of earning capacity and the permanent nature of his disability. The legal proceedings unfolded as follows:
- Dubai Court of First Instance: Originally awarded Dh400,000.
- Appeal Court: Increased the award to Dh600,000.
- Final Payout: The insurer eventually deposited Dh655,341 into his account, a figure that includes court costs.
Ongoing Appeal to the Court of Cassation
Despite the payout, Sudheer and his legal team are not satisfied with the amount. His legal representative, Advocate Shamsudeen Karunagappally of Ayesha Aldhaheri Advocates in Dubai, has argued that the current settlement does not adequately reflect the true cost of his permanent disability.
The legal team maintains that the compensation fails to fully cover the