Many injuries are painful, but there’s also a category called “catastrophic” injuries. These injuries have a long-lasting impact on the victim and require support and care for a long time.
Catastrophic injuries: What are they?
Catastrophic injury is the term used to describe serious, sometimes permanent injuries that have a significant impact on a person’s emotional, physical and financial health. These injuries are usually so severe that the person is unable to work or live independently.
Catastrophic Injuries: Examples
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
A TBI occurs when a sudden head blow or jolt disrupts the normal function of the brain. These injuries may cause cognitive impairment, memory problems, behavioral changes, or even a persistent vegetative condition. TBI victims require medical supervision and rehabilitation therapy.
Spinal Cord Injury
The spinal cord is responsible for the movement and independence of the victim. Damage can cause partial or total paralysis. spinal injuries can make it difficult for a person to perform daily tasks. They may also require medical treatment and assistive devices.
Severe Burns
Burns that are severe can result in permanent scarring and disfigurement. These burns can also cause respiratory problems, psychological trauma and require multiple surgeries.
Amputations
Losing a limb can make it difficult for a person to carry out daily tasks, maintain employment, or engage in hobbies. The cost of prosthetic limbs is high, and the adjustment to life with a replacement limb can be difficult.
Multiple fractures and Crush injuries
Multiple fractures and crush injuries can lead to chronic pain, disability and long-term disability. These injuries can require extensive surgery, physical therapy and pain management treatments.
Factors that make injuries catastrophic
There are many factors that contribute to the severity and “catastrophic” classification of an injury.
- Long-term Impact: Injured persons’ ability to perform essential tasks and live life as before the accident has been significantly reduced.
- Costly medical care: Treatment of catastrophic injuries can be a significant financial burden. Medical costs for hospital stays, surgeries, medication, rehabilitation and ongoing care can add up quickly.
- Income Loss: Catastrophic injury can prevent people from returning to their jobs or furthering their careers. This results in income loss and the potential for career advancement.
- Emotional trauma: Coping after a serious injury can be difficult for the injured and their family members. Professional counseling and support is often required.
- The Quality of Life: Catastrophic injury can limit the ability of a person to participate in social interaction, hobbies and everyday activities. This affects their quality of life.
It is important to consult a Las Vegas catastrophic injury lawyer if you or someone close to you has suffered from a catastrophic injury. If you or a loved one suffers a catastrophic injury due to another’s negligence, it is your right to pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages and emotional distress. You can also seek compensation for future care. A lawyer who specializes in personal injury can help you navigate this difficult situation and protect your rights.
The post How to Determine if an Injury is “Catastrophic?” first appeared on Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers.