What Is a Catastrophic Injury Accident?
While some people may walk away from an accident with only minor injuries, others suffer severe harm that can significantly alter their lives. These injuries, known as catastrophic injuries, often impact essential bodily systems like the brain, spinal cord, and vital organs, potentially leading to long-term disabilities or chronic discomfort. Catastrophic injuries can occur from various events, such as car and workplace accidents, medical malpractice, and other negligent acts. The effects of these injuries extend beyond immediate medical care. They can hinder a person’s ability to work, participate in daily activities, maintain personal relationships, and live the life they had envisioned.
Catastrophic Injury Explained
Catastrophic injuries are serious injuries that lead to significant, long-lasting changes in a person’s lifestyle and daily activities. These injuries often have effects beyond physical harm, influencing psychological health, social relations, and the capability to carry out everyday tasks. Various organizations and authorities define catastrophic injuries differently based on their severity and the impact on one’s life. For instance, the United States federal government describes a catastrophic injury as permanently preventing an individual from returning to work, emphasizing the injury’s profound implications on their ability to earn a living and sustain their former lifestyle. Examples of such injuries include:
- Severe traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Multiple fractures
- Severe burn injuries
- Serious neck injuries
- Severe ligament damage
- Disfigurement
- Loss of vision
- Other conditions that necessitate extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
Difference Between Personal Injury Accidents and Catastrophic Injury Accidents
Both ordinary personal injury cases and catastrophic personal injury cases can result in serious injuries that significantly impact a person’s life. However, the primary distinction between the two lies in the individual’s condition after they have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). In ordinary personal injury cases, injuries might lead to temporary disabilities or constraints that improve over time, allowing the injured party to return to normal activities or work after receiving appropriate medical treatment. In comparison, catastrophic personal injury cases typically involve injuries that result in long-term or permanent disabilities, significantly affecting the individual’s quality of life. These cases often require extensive rehabilitation and long-term medical care, and the recovery process may not lead to a full return to previous health or functioning.
Types of Financial Damages You Can Pursue Following a Catastrophic Injury
Individuals who have experienced a catastrophic injury often face a variety of challenges and may be entitled to damages to compensate for their losses. The specific amount and types of damages awarded can vary significantly based on the nature of the injury and the unique circumstances surrounding the incident that caused it. Typically, the following categories of damages may be claimed for catastrophic injuries:
- Medical expenses, including immediate medical costs incurred at the time of the injury and any ongoing or future medical treatments that may be necessary for recovery
- Lost wages and loss of future income
- Loss of household services
- Additional care costs
- Loss of quality of life
- Pain and suffering
In addition to these compensatory damages, certain jurisdictions, such as California, grant punitive damages. However, these damages are only awarded to punish the party responsible for the injury and to deter similar behavior in the future.
Contact Albert Abkarian & Associates To Learn More About Your Legal Options Following a Catastrophic Injury Accident
If you or a loved one suffered a catastrophic injury due to another person’s wrongful actions, you may deserve compensation to cover your current and future losses. If you are ready to review your case with an experienced California catastrophic injury attorney, contact Albert Abkarian & Associates today to schedule a free consultation