When Is An Injury Catastrophic?

Injuries of all kinds can slow us down and cause us to miss out on work and valuable life events. Whether you were in a car accident, injured while on the job, or in some other type of situation where you ended up hurt, it’s important to know whether or not you are entitled to compensation. First and foremost, however, you need to determine if the injury can be considered “catastrophic”.

This is not just dramatic language. Rather, a catastrophic injury in the legal and medical sense is one that falls into a specific extreme category. In most cases, an injury considered to be catastrophic is one that the victim will likely never make a full recovery from. It is crucial that you consult with an experienced accident attorney as soon as possible to learn more about the possibilities of your case. In the meantime, keep reading to learn more about what constitutes a catastrophic injury and what these situations could mean for you in terms of compensation.

Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries tend to result in permanent, lifelong disabilities. Often the result of car accidents or medical malpractice, (though occasional workplaces injuries, sports-related incidents or other events), these injuries are ones that the body never makes a full recover from and leaves the victim incapacitated in some way. The victim may not be able to return to work in the foreseeable future or ever, or they may be permanently handicapped (mentally or physically). In some cases, they injury may result in death or a serious, terminal condition.

Catastrophic injuries vary greatly and actually, often consist of multiple injuries. While this list does not include everything, commonly seen catastrophic injuries include the following:

• Head Injuries
• Limb loss (amputation either directly from the accident or later as a medical necessity during treatment of the injury)
• Broken bones and fractures, often in multiple places and extensive
• Eyesight and/or hearing loss
• Brain damage and neurological disorders
• CNS (Central Nervous System) damage, often causing lifelong pain
• Permanent disfigurement (anywhere on the body)
• Serious lacerations
• Paralyzation or loss of movement
• Internal injuries (often involving internal bleeding or serious damage to the organs)

Now, it is important to focus on recovery and remain optimistic if you or a loved one is suffering from any of the injuries. That said, it is also important to be realistic about the scope of the injuries and what they mean for the future. By doing so, you will increase your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.

What Kind of Compensation Am I Entitled To?

The exact amount of compensation you could receive will vary greatly depending on the type of catastrophic injury, its severity and the circumstances surrounding the accident that caused it. That said, you could be awarded damages that make up for any lost wages, physical suffering, mental anguish, loss of consortium, disfigurement, property loss and more. Likewise, compensation for catastrophic injuries often includes payment for medical bills, therapy and any other form of treatment that was necessary as a result.

Catastrophic injuries often leave physical and emotional scars, but getting the compensation you are owed can help provide at least some small comfort and sense of justice. If you or a loved one has experienced a catastrophic injury, it’s imperative that you seek reliable legal counsel today!