If you or someone you love has been injured in an accident and the injury was the fault of someone else, you may want to consider pursuing legal action. These injuries can be caused by any number of causes, including automobile accidents, slip and falls, sports accidents, and medical malpractice. However, it is not always easy to find the right lawyer to handle your case.
So, what qualifies as catastrophic injury?
Injuries to the spine, spinal cord, or brain
Catastrophic injuries to the spine, spinal cord, or brain can affect a person for life. The injury can result in long-term effects such as pain, paralysis, respiratory and circulatory problems, and sexual dysfunction.
Catastrophic injuries are often the result of an event or accident. They can be caused by violence, car accidents, or sports. Depending on the circumstances, the injuries can be serious or minor. Some examples include a bump to the head, a fractured skull, a gunshot wound, or a boating accident.
The most common forms of catastrophic injuries are spinal cord and neck injuries. These injuries affect the spinal cord, which sends messages from the brain to the rest of the body. Spinal cord injuries can result in temporary or permanent changes in sensation, movement, and mobility.
A spinal cord injury can be caused by a direct blow to the spine, an object pressing on the spinal column, or a disease. In the case of spinal cord injuries, immediate treatment includes placing the person on a backboard to protect the spinal cord from further damage. Other treatments may include removing objects that are pressed on the spinal column, realigning the spine, or medications to reduce pressure.
Long-term pain
The impact of chronic pain after a catastrophic injury is devastating. The loss of work and quality of life can make it difficult for victims to adapt to their new lives. It can also result in lifetime medical bills and other losses. In addition to dealing with physical and psychological effects, some patients are unable to earn money for treatment.
Chronic pain is diagnosed when a patient reports pain that has been present for at least six months. During this time, pain may be localized or widespread, depending on the nature of the injury. Pain is often associated with social, psychological, and biological factors.
Several factors are thought to increase the risk of chronic pain. These include a lower socioeconomic status, a lower level of education, and unemployment. However, it is not yet clear how these factors interact.
Researchers have tried to predict chronic pain by using several measures. For example, lower income has been linked to a higher likelihood of suffering from chronic pain after an injury.
Permanent disabilities
A catastrophic injury is a serious situation that can change a person’s life forever. This is especially true for victims of car accidents. Often, they will need specialized care for the rest of their lives. In addition to physical impairments, the victim might suffer from emotional and psychological stress.
Fortunately, there are legal options for people who have been injured in a car accident. They can seek compensation for the medical costs and other expenses associated with their injuries.
Generally, a permanent disability is a condition that prevents an individual from working for the rest of their life. These injuries may be the result of negligence or intentional conduct. Permanent disabilities are very costly to treat, and may take months, even years to recover from.
If you have been seriously injured in a car crash, you may be eligible for Social Security benefits. The Social Security Administration has strict rules for qualifying for these benefits.
Legal options after a catastrophic injury
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An attorney can help you determine the value of your claim and negotiate a fair settlement.
Whether you were an employee or a private citizen, a catastrophic injury can change your life in many ways. Medical treatment and rehabilitation can take years, and your quality of life may not return to the way it was before the accident. Your family and loved ones will also be affected.
You can get compensation for your catastrophic injuries through a personal injury lawsuit. The amount of compensation you receive will depend on the extent of the injury, as well as any complications that follow. It can also depend on your relationship with the at-fault party.
Typical damages for a catastrophic injury include physical pain and suffering, emotional anguish, and loss of mobility. If you have been involved in an accident, you may also be eligible for long-term disability benefits from the state.
