A catastrophic injury alters the course of your life forever. This is because it is a severe enough injury to impact your quality of life and your ability to show up in life. These types of injuries cause a significant amount of physical pain, emotional turmoil, and financial consequences. Therefore, it is imperative that in the event you are catastrophically injured that you seek the counsel of a reputable personal injury attorney who will fight for the type of compensation you deserve.
Were you catastrophically injured and concerned about how you will be able to continue to lead a normal life? Contact our office online today to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney at our firm.
What Is a Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury is a severe injury to one of the body’s major systems, such as the brain, spinal cord, spine, and/or skull. The legal definition of a catastrophic injury is an injury with direct and proximate consequences that permanent prevent an individual from performing any gainful work. What this means is that a catastrophic injury leaves an individual with permanent, severe damage. These injuries have lasting short- and long-term consequences on an individual’s ability to function as a normal member of society.
Some examples of a catastrophic injury include but are not limited to the following:
- Multiple bone fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head and brain injuries
- Amputations
- Loss of sight or hearing
- Permanent injuries to the central nervous system
- Neurological disorders
- Burn injuries that disfigure the individual
What Causes Catastrophic Injuries?
There are many causes of catastrophic injuries; however, the most common is negligence. Some examples include medical malpractice, distracted and impaired driving, improper training on construction sites, and failing to provide an appropriate duty of care as a property owner.
How to Prove Catastrophic Injury
To be able to prove a catastrophic injury, you must show that the injury was a result of another individual’s negligence. You must prove that the defendant responsible owed you what is called a duty of care, breached this duty of care, and that you suffered damages because of this. Here are some ways you can prove you were severely injured and suffered because of a catastrophic injury:
- Doctor’s and surgeon’s notes
- Medical records (X-ray results, MRI results, blood test results, prescriptions)
- Photographs of the accident’s location (when applicable)
- Witness testimonials
- Photographs of your injuries
- Proof you are unable to work due to your injury
- Police reports
- Psychologist’s notes and records
Compensation for a Catastrophic Injury
As you must face costly medical bills, potential surgery, ongoing physical therapy, medication, and other expenses, it is imperative that you receive compensation for your injury. The severity and nature of your injuries will determine what kind of compensation you should be awarded, but you will need a lawyer to help get you to that point. The best way to receive appropriate compensation is to ensure you have documented your injuries to the best of your ability.
If you require the assistance of an experienced personal injury lawyer, contact our office online or via (916) 778-3228.