The Long-Term Impacts of a Catastrophic Injury
The thing that makes injuries “catastrophic” is their long-term effect on the victim’s life. These injuries can cause permanent disability, requiring significant modifications in your day-to-day living. Victims with severe injuries may never work again and may require constant care and assistance. The trauma of the pain and loss of life quality can lead to depression, anxiety, and low mental well-being. The extent and scope of the impacts put catastrophic injuries on a different level of severity than those in typical personal injury cases. If you have serious injuries, you need an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer who can account for the full range of your losses and fight for justice.Examples of Catastrophic Injuries in Bakersfield
There is no one legal understanding of a catastrophic injury in California; however, they are usually considered any injury that causes a significant and permanent loss of bodily function and ability to work. Below are some of the most common types of injuries that could qualify as catastrophic:- Spinal cord injuries. Spinal cord injuries damage the central nervous system and interrupt communications between the brain and the rest of the body. Injuries to the spinal column can cause permanent mobility issues and paralysis.
- Traumatic brain injuries. Traumatic brain injuries are associated with profound physical and cognitive changes. A brain injury can affect dexterity and motor control as well as memory, executive function, and emotional regulation.
- Amputations. Losing a limb can require victims to completely alter their daily routine and lose independence. Amputees may also contend with extensive surgeries and expensive prosthetic devices.
- Organ damage. Organ damage can cause systemic issues and disease, particularly damage to the liver, kidneys, and lungs. Organ transplant recipients can require lifelong medication and monitoring.
- Loss of hearing or vision. Becoming blind or deaf from an accident can alter your daily routine and ability to perform your job or any work.
- Complex fractures. Complex fractures are those in which the bone breaks into multiple pieces, causing significant damage to the surrounding muscles and tissues. These fractures can cause lasting musculoskeletal issues and dysfunction.
- Thermal or chemical burns. Second and third-degree burns can cause mobility restrictions, pain, and discomfort. Burn victims may also require extensive reconstructive surgery and physical therapy.
- Disease from toxic exposure. Disease from long-term exposure to toxic materials can also cause substantial losses in physical and cognitive capacities.
Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries
Compensation for a catastrophic injury can be far-reaching and provide redress for the many losses you suffered. Depending on your circumstances, a Bakersfield personal injury lawyer can pursue financial compensation for the following losses:- Emergency medical bills and hospitalization
- Ongoing therapy and rehabilitative costs
- Corrective surgeries or procedures
- Medications and medical devices
- Cost of necessary replacement household services
- Lost work income and diminished lifetime earning potential
- Physical pain, emotional trauma, and mental anguish
- Quality-of-life reductions and inconvenience
- Loss of enjoyment and capacity to engage in favored activities
