A “catastrophic injury” refers to injuries people sustain that are quite serious and redefine lives. But what is a catastrophic injury?
Definition
A number of types of injuries may be considered catastrophic. The classification is not based upon the specific type of injury, but upon the effect of the injury upon the injured person’s future life. The classification refers to an injury that permanently prevents the individual from engaging in gainful work. The injury typically results from a sudden and unexpected injury.
These injuries leave individuals with permanent disabilities: they are serious injuries that have long term effects upon the individual and his or her family for the rest of his or her life. These injuries, and their life-changing effects place significant stress and strain on the injured person’s family. They may require constant care and supervision, management of many special needs, and a lifetime of secondary illnesses, rehabilitation, medical bills, and loss of income.
Causes of Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries can result from a number of injury types. For the most part, these injuries are not within the control of the injured person. Instead, they are the result of incidences and factors beyond their control. Among the most common causes of catastrophic injuries are:
- Motor Vehicle Accidents (Car, Truck, Motorcycle, Bicycle, Pedestrian-involved)
- Swimming Pool Accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Malfunctioning equipment or products
- Work-related accidents
- Intentional acts
Types of Catastrophic Injuries
Many types of injuries may be catastrophic if they result in permanent disability. These injuries typically incur significant ongoing financial cost and many special needs. The most common types of catastrophic injuries include:
- Multiple serious fractures
- Serious joint damage
- Severe burns
- Amputation
- Coma
- Loss of sight or hearing
- Organ damage
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Spinal Cord Injury
- Neurological Damage
- Paralysis
- Death
An Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a member of your family has sustained or died as a result of a catastrophic injury, contact an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible. If the accident was the result of the negligence or wrongdoing of another person and through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to financial compensation. This compensation will be an important part of the ability to obtain the quality medical care you need.
A trusted personal injury attorney will ensure that necessary documents are obtained, that the cause of the injury is clear, and that the value of the claim has been determined accurately. Your attorney will also guide you and represent you in the various legal actions necessary to obtain the compensation to which you are entitled.
Does Virginia Cap Non-Economic Damages?
You may be aware that a number of states have placed a cap on the amount of non-economic damages that can be awarded in a personal injury case involving a catastrophic injury. Virginia does not cap the amount of the financial damages awards you may be entitled to claim. The two exceptions are: (1) medical malpractice$2,000,000, and (2) punitive damages – capped at $350,000.
Call Altizer Law, P.C.
If you or a loved one has sustained a catastrophic injury, call Altizer Law, P.C. Bettina Altizer and her team are known for their compassion and effectiveness in representing clients in catastrophic injury cases. With 30 years of experience she brings to each case the aggressive determination to obtain the largest possible settlement for each client. When the case is about your future or your loved one’s future, Bettina clearly understands that it’s about the money.
