What Constitutes Catastrophic Injury?

In the legal realm, you might hear the terms “personal injury” and “catastrophic injury.” Are the two interchangeable? What’s the difference? A catastrophic injury can be a type of personal injury but, as its name implies, it is extremely serious.

Victims of minor accidents might escape with only a few scratches or bruises. However, in a serious and tragic incident, a victim can suffer catastrophic injuries, often leading to disabilities that can prevent them from working or enjoying their previous quality of life.

What makes an injury catastrophic?

Typically, the area of the body injured is what determines the severity of the injury. For example, a broken arm might keep a person from typing or driving for a while, but a broken spine could keep him or her in a wheelchair for life. That injury to the spinal cord would be considered catastrophic because of its life-altering effect on the victim. The injured person will likely live with the effects of the injury forever.

A catastrophic injury might require someone to use a cane, wheelchair, or mobility scooter for a long period after an accident or, in some cases, permanently. These injuries can also limit the type of work a person can perform or even prevent them from ever working again.

What kinds of accidents lead to catastrophic injury?

Any type of incident can lead to a catastrophic injury, but some are more likely to be more serious. Examples include:

• Car and motorcycle wrecks
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Sports injuries
• Construction accidents
• Birth injuries
• Bicycle wrecks
• Violence

What are some examples of catastrophic injuries?

Some of the long-lasting or permanent conditions that can result from a catastrophic injury include the following:

• Paralysis
• Nerve damage
• Brain damage
• Loss of motor skills or function
• Loss of limb
• Organ damage

Seeking damages after a serious injury

Because these injuries are so severe, victims might seek higher damages in their personal injury claims. Examples of damages people sometimes seek through these types of claims include:

• Medical bills
• Compensation for lost wages and future work opportunities
• Mobility aids or other disability services
• Physical therapy
• Psychological counseling for emotional trauma
• Temporary or permanent live-in assistance or nurse

When you suffer a catastrophic injury, your life can change in an instant. You may be left unable to work or enjoy the daily activities you did before the accident.

If someone else’s reckless behavior or negligence caused your injury, you deserve compensation for your losses and expenses. The attorneys at Harris Lowry Manton LLP are here and ready to fight for you. To arrange a no-obligation consultation, call us at 404-961-7650 at our Atlanta office, or in Savannah at 912-651-9967, or fill out our contact form.