If you were injured due to the negligent actions of another person, you might be preparing to file a personal injury claim. The injury might result from a car accident where the driver acted recklessly. It could also result from medical malpractice, where a doctor’s behaviors lead to a permanent injury. The type of injury you suffered will determine what compensation you may be entitled to during a lawsuit. Is your injury severe enough to be considered a catastrophic injury? What’s the difference between a moderate personal injury and a catastrophic one? Keep reading to learn more.
What is a Moderate Personal Injury?
A moderate personal injury is a physical injury involving loss of consciousness or that requires medical treatment. This type of injury does not cause a substantial risk of death, serious, permanent disfigurement, or protracted loss or impairment of bodily functions. Personal injury rules apply when someone acts negligently, and that carelessness harms another person. Examples include car accidents, slip and fall incidents, and medical malpractice, among other cases. Common personal injuries include:
- Whiplash,
- Concussion,
- Bruises and lacerations,
- Sprains and strains;
- Puncture wounds;
- Limited bone fractures,
- Emotional distress.
Many more non-catastrophic injury examples are possible. What they all have in common is the victim will eventually make a full recovery. However, you might reach maximum medical improvement in a catastrophic injury without regaining your pre-accident health.
What Makes an Injury Catastrophic?
A catastrophic injury completely disrupts the life of the victim and their families. For instance, somebody who has paralysis due to an injury will need to be cared for and can not live independently like they once did. An attorney will consider the damages suffered by victims and their loved ones, the potential for complications, and the need to secure future financial compensation. Some injuries that are likely to be labeled as ‘catastrophic’ may include:
- Amputation or a loss of limb
- Brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Paralysis
- Paraplegia
- Severe burn injuries
- Severe nerve or ligament damage
- Multiple broken bones
Catastrophic injuries carry a more significant potential for lifelong repercussions. It may result in a permanent disability, painful recovery, and life-altering impairment. The damage suffered will differ in every case, but every catastrophic injury results in financial, emotional, and physical losses. Your attorney will consider many factors when looking at how much compensation you will receive, including:
- Medical care
- Future medical needs
- Loss of income
- Loss of future income
- Financial losses incurred by families,
There are also non-economic losses, such as emotional suffering and a loss of quality or enjoyment of life, requiring therapy or emotional support. Many people will no longer be able to participate in the activities they once enjoyed.
Evaluating the nature of these injuries and their long-term or life-long impact on victims is crucial in accurately assessing damages. Having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side is critical to ensure you are properly compensated for your injuries. Reach out to the Snyder Law Group today to learn more.
Contact The Snyder Law Group Today
The Snyder Law Group, LLC, proudly represents clients throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C. Our experienced Baltimore attorneys understand the frustration that comes with an insurance company, medical professional, or other party that refuses to accept liability for negligent or reckless behavior. You can take heart in knowing there are talented and experienced lawyers ready to work for you. We are experienced in handling personal injury claims of medical malpractice or injury resulting from serious car and truck accidents, and have secured hundreds of millions in verdicts and settlements. Please visit our website, www.410thefirm.com, or call us at 410-843-3476, for more information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.