Being involved in an accident is never fun, but when you sustain a serious and life-altering injury, it can make the situation even more complex and overwhelming. The way that catastrophic injuries are handled in personal injury law is designed to ensure that victims receive fair compensation not only for the substantial financial loss they suffer but also for their pain and the permanent effects the injury will have on their lives. It is crucial that you understand your legal rights and options after being injured in a serious accident. Continue reading and speak with a Pikeville, KY personal injury lawyer to schedule your free consultation today.
What Are Catastrophic Injuries?
The National Center for Catastrophic Sport Injury Research (NCCSIR) defines catastrophic injuries as “fatalities, injuries that result in permanent functional disability, and serious injuries that result in temporary functional disability with full recovery.”
Catastrophic injuries are severe and devastating injuries that often have permanent or long-lasting effects on the victim’s life. These injuries can leave the victim with a life of constant medical treatment and pain and prevent them from being able to lead a normal or independent life.
Any physical or mental damage that permanently alters a person’s quality of life and/or ability to function on a daily basis can be considered a catastrophic injury. Common examples of these types of injuries include the following.
- Spinal cord injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or total paralysis, chronic pain, respiratory issues, circulatory problems, exaggerated reflexes, spasms, and more
- TBI: Traumatic brain injuries can be devastating and have life-long effects like speech problems, cognitive dysfunction, limited mobility, emotional issues, etc.
- Amputations: The loss of a limb severely limits mobility and can cause chronic pain, requiring ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and prosthetics
- Severe burns: Intense burns can result in permanent disfigurement, limited mobility, chronic pain, and infections that require extensive medical treatment
- Organ damage: Damage to vital organs can result in severe ailments, including permanent disabilities or loss of function
- Loss of senses: Losing hearing or vision can dramatically alter an individual’s ability to function in society and impact their quality of life
How Are Catastrophic Injuries Handled?
Because catastrophic injuries are so damaging, it is important that they are handled properly during personal injury cases. Catastrophic injuries are dealt with similarly to standard personal injury situations, but they require more intensive research and damages.
During a personal injury claim or lawsuit involving a catastrophic injury, it is imperative that the focus be on not only the victim’s immediate losses but also on the long-term impact of the accident.
Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, emotional distress, and pain and suffering are always considered in a personal injury case. However, when an individual sustains a catastrophic injury, these issues will continue to be relevant, possibly for the rest of their life.
It is imperative that compensation includes damages specific to the injury, such as modifications needed for the home or vehicle, in-home care, ongoing surgeries or treatments, ongoing medication, prosthetics, and more. It is also important to address the victim’s loss of enjoyment of life, loss of consortium, the development of any mental disorders, and other emotional damages.
To learn more and secure skilled legal representation, contact an experienced personal injury attorney today.
