In personal injury law, there is often the question of whether an accident led to what might be considered a “catastrophic” injury. This issue is relevant for many reasons, including how a claim is paid to the victim and what damage caps are imposed on the total amount. Although most people usually think of spinal cord injuries involving paralysis as the most common type of catastrophic injury, there are various kinds and many potential causes. Let’s go over what is considered a catastrophic injury and why the issue can become so critical.
What is a Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury is a physical injury regarded as particularly serious, has a considerable impact on the victim’s life, and requires significant medical treatment. These injuries are not always permanent but take months or years to heal. A catastrophic injury typically leaves the victim with one or more permanent disabilities. Some of the most common incidents resulting in devastating injuries include:
- Car accidents
- Bike accidents
- Truck accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Construction accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Slips and falls
Types of Catastrophic Injuries
It may be easier to think about what does not count as a catastrophic injury. For example, a person that slips and falls in a store might break their forearm during the fall. In usual circumstances, we can expect a broken forearm to heal without issue.
On the other hand, there are severe injuries a person may never recover from. Some examples of these injuries include:
- Brain damage that leads to a coma
- Spinal injury that limits their ability to walk
- Amputations of body parts
- Injuries that result in loss of motor function
- Facial scars
- Injuries to body parts that prevent the victim from working
Why You Need a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
By pursuing a personal injury claim, you may limit the compensation you’ll obtain. Many states have caps on the damages awarded in injury cases, but many of these rules have exceptions for catastrophic injuries. When you hear about people receiving millions of dollars in injury settlements, it’s easy to think of that as a win. But imagine paying for 24/7 medical care for the next 50 years or the rest of your life.
Expenses add up quickly, and a catastrophic injury settlement can help make up some of these short-term and long-term expenses. When somebody else’s negligence, carelessness, or malpractice leads to another person’s catastrophic injury, it’s time to speak with an experienced attorney. The skilled team at The Snyder Law Group is ready to help you get your life back.
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.