Personal injury cases are always serious. When an injury occurs, the injured person can experience pain, lost wages, and a lengthy recovery. Catastrophic injuries can be even more devastating. When these kinds of injuries occur, the victim may forever be unable to return to work or engage in his or her normal activities. Catastrophic injuries can also mean a lifetime of medical bills and the need for continuous care. When is a personal injury considered to be catastrophic? Here is what you need to know.
Catastrophic Injury Basics
Under the law, a catastrophic injury is one that permanently prevents the impacted party from working. As the result of a catastrophic injury, the victim can no longer provide for him or herself and may need around-the-clock care or assistance. In addition to the financial hardship created by a catastrophic injury, the person may suffer emotional distress and the loss of the ability to do normal activities, including physical activity and travel. Cognitive impacts also sometimes occur as part of a catastrophic injury, which can affect relationships and personal frustration.
Common Catastrophic Injuries
Nearly any kind of injury can be catastrophic, but there are certain injuries that are more likely than others to cause catastrophic outcomes. These include injuries that involve the central nervous system, such as a spinal injury, head traumas, severe burns, eye injuries, and neck fractures. Catastrophic injuries often involve partial or total paralysis as well.
Catastrophic Injury Compensation
If it is determined that a catastrophic injury happened as the result of negligence of another person, then the responsible person could be required to pay significant damages. The compensation could include current and future medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and the cost of future care.
If you have been injured as the result of someone’s negligence, contact Mesch Clark Rothschild. We have been serving the community since the 1930s, providing high-quality legal representation. Talk to a personal injury attorney in Tucson by calling (520) 624-8886.
