All traumatic injuries can dramatically change a person’s life. For most people, those changes are temporary and, fortunately, the injuries don’t lead to life-long consequences. For others, the injuries are catastrophic and lead to permanent, dramatic changes to a person’s quality of life. A person who has suffered catastrophic injuries needs to work with an attorney qualified to understand those impacts, including past and future medical care needs and costs, past or ongoing wage loss or changes in a person’s working capabilities, and the emotional consequences of these changes.
What Makes an Injury Catastrophic?
Catastrophic injury attorneys tend to look for the following characteristics when determining how serious an injury case is:
-Loss of limbs
-Loss of a sensory capability
-Permanent deformities
-Long-term or permanent injuries
-Long-term or permanent disabilities
What Are the Types of Catastrophic Injuries?
Catastrophic injuries do not usually fall into neat categories. Consequently, types tend to manifest as examples of catastrophic injuries. Using the characteristics above, this could include the following:
-Leg Amputations
-Loss of sight
-Paralysis
-Mental impairments from brain damage
What Are the Causes of Catastrophic Injuries?
Many catastrophic injuries are caused by car crashes, often involving intoxicated drivers, reckless drivers, or high rates of speed. However, there are several other potential causes of catastrophic injuries. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics estimates that 5,333 fatal injuries occurred in 2019. These lead to wrongful death cases, but may include a period of unsuccessful life-saving measures generating medical expenses, and may leave a family without the financial contributions of their loved one. Other sources of catastrophic injuries include falling objects, trip and fall incidents, and medical malpractice.
What Are the Costs From Incurring a Catastrophic Injury?
Catastrophic injuries result in high medical bills. From emergency room visits to life-saving care and rehabilitation, the medical cost will be high. During this time, the person is unable to work, so he or she may also lose income. Non-monetary costs may include limited mobility, lower quality of life and mental health concerns.
How Can a Lawyer Help Get You Compensation?
To maximize your chances of getting the compensation you deserve, contact Peterson Berk & Cross, S.C. to schedule a meeting. Clients trust us with their complex personal injury matters because of our experience, resources and track record of success.
