Not all injuries are equal. Victims of relatively minor accidents only suffer small injuries like scratches or bruises, while more substantial accidents can result in more severe injuries. Often, these injuries can result in disabilities that keep a person from working or going to school, sometimes even permanently.
What Is a Catastrophic Injury?
It’s generally understood that a catastrophic injury is one that severely injuries a victim and leads to a long-term, if not permanent, disability and disfigurement. While there is no exact legal definition of catastrophic injury, it often entails a difficult recovery process, several surgeries and the possibility of a lifetime of medical treatment. Often, a victim who suffers a catastrophic injury is unable to return to work, either in their chosen field or any field at all.
One key factor that defines a catastrophic injury is the debilitating nature of the injury, and the extent to which it is expected to continue. If an injured person is unable to perform day-to-day functions on a long-term basis, and requires live-in case, the injury is likely catastrophic. Another important factor is the impact the injury has on their life. Catastrophic injuries usually result in some level of permanent disability and prevent the victim from earning a living.
Any type of accident can result in a catastrophic injury. However, the types of catastrophic injuries that exist are much more narrowly defined. These can include brain injuries, severe burns, bone fractures, dismemberment, paralysis, organ damage, toxic chemical/substance exposure, head trauma and spinal cord injuries.
If you are seeking compensation for expenses related to a catastrophic injury, it’s important to fully document your expenses and financial needs. This means keeping a file that contains medical records, witness testimonies, photographs and videos of the accident and any other proof that can prove another party’s negligence. If you do file a catastrophic injury claim against a third party, you can recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, counseling, disability services and temporary or permanent live-in help.
Legal representation is crucial in recovering the compensation you need for a serious injury. If you need help with your case, contact our Reno catastrophic injury attorneys at Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. today.
Call (775) 227-2280 or contact us online today for a free initial consultation.