While many injuries heal completely, some are so severe they result in permanent physical and/or mental impairments. These injuries are known as catastrophic injuries, and they include spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injury, paralysis, severe burns and dismemberment. If you or your loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced Orlando injury attorney can help you fight to get the justice your family deserves.
Causes of Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries can be caused by:
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Swimming pool accidents
- Sports accidents
- Workplace accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Falls from a height
- Violent crime
- Fires and explosions
- Medical malpractice
- Defective products
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, falls account for 35.2 percent of traumatic brain injuries in the United States, while motor vehicle accidents account for 17.3 percent. Motor vehicle accidents are also responsible for more than 40 percent of new spinal cord injuries each year in the U.S., according to the Mayo Clinic. When an individual or company acts recklessly or negligently and causes someone to suffer a catastrophic injury, that party may be legally liable.
Coping With a Catastrophic Injury
A catastrophic injury is a life-changing event. Victims of catastrophic injuries may not be able to participate in activities they used to enjoy, and they may be unable to perform certain job duties or to work at all. Some victims may need a wheelchair to get around, while others may find themselves bedbound. Victims might suffer permanent disfigurement, experience cognitive and emotional impairments or suffer from chronic pain. A catastrophic injury can even shorten a person’s lifespan. Depending on the type of injury, treatment might involve multiple surgeries, painful skin grafting procedures, intense physical therapy and/or lifelong medications. Some victims may even need round-the-clock care for the rest of their lives.
If you or your loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, a qualified Orlando injury lawyer can help you obtain compensation for the treatment, equipment, care, accommodations and rehabilitation you or your family member needs to live as comfortable and rewarding a life as possible. No matter who may be at fault for the injury, contact a knowledgeable Orlando injury attorney today to learn about your legal rights.