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When Is a Personal Injury Considered Catastrophic?
- By Robert Stahle
- •
- 03 Jan, 2024
Understanding when an injury is considered catastrophic is crucial in personal injury cases. An injury’s severity plays a significant role, as it determines the value of your claim and the compensation you may be entitled to.
Defining a catastrophic injury case can be challenging, as there is no precise legal or medical definition. But, it generally involves physical trauma that requires extensive medical intervention and may result in long-term complications. Here are some common catastrophic injuries:
- Brain or Spinal Cord Damage
Injuries involving trauma to the brain or injury to the spine can have lifelong effects, including cognitive and visual impairments, permanent brain damage, and paralysis. These conditions often require significant medical treatments and rehabilitation, resulting in costly expenses and long-term care. - Loss of a Digit or Limb
Losing a hand, arm, leg, or even a toe or finger can be life-altering and lead to severe emotional trauma. Amputation injuries result in physical limitations, which can significantly impact a person's ability to perform daily routines and maintain their quality of life. - Permanent Scarring or Disfigurement
Regardless of the specific cause, permanent scarring and disfigurement can negatively affect a person's life, both physically and mentally, thus making it catastrophic. These injuries may result from severe burns, lacerations, and displaced bone structure. - Loss of Bodily Function
Any impairment or loss of bodily function may also be considered a catastrophic injury case, as it can have long-term consequences and require extensive treatments. This includes injuries that damage to organs such as the lungs, stomach, intestines, bowel, bladder, or liver. - Permanent Disability
Untreatable injuries, even through extensive medical care, can result in a lifelong disability. These disabilities are considered catastrophic, as they limit mobility, prevent individuals from performing their jobs, and require significant adjustments and accommodations to continue their everyday lives.
Consult a Trusted Catastrophic Accident Lawyer
Learning about catastrophic injuries can help you determine the compensation you deserve when pursuing a personal injury case. Still, navigating legal claims is best done with the help of a professional. Contact our experienced team at Fitch & Stahle Law Office in IA and NE to learn about our services.
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