Some people might perceive the word ‘’catastrophic’’ as something too dramatic, but it is not so in legal parlance. You may think that a catastrophe is something like having been crushed by a piece of injury or falling off a mountain. But in legal terms, catastrophic injuries may mean something else altogether.
So what determines whether an injury is catastrophic or not? This article explains so make sure you read it.
Causes of Catastrophic Injuries
The thing is that such injuries can happen anywhere and at any point in time. However, these are the common causes of such injuries:
- Car accidents
- Medical negligence
- Construction work
- Intentional violence
No matter what these situations may have led to, such injuries are a result of someone else’s fault. Hiring an injury attorney in Ogden is going to help determine what kind of compensation can be gained in a particular catastrophic accident.
What a Catastrophic Injury is
When a sudden and unexpected event occurs which leads to severe injuries, it can be termed a catastrophic injury. Whether it is the amputation of a limb, brain damage, paralysis in a child, multiple fractures in the body, permanent disability, severe burns, or death, anything can be catastrophic because they have changed the way a person or persons were living their lives.
This means that any injury that prevents the injured person to enjoy life or perform work in a way they used to can be termed a catastrophic injury. It can be injuries that let a person continue working or do not allow the person or her family to enjoy life as before.
When life-changing injuries occur due to an accident that was caused by someone else’s fault, a catastrophic injury can be said to have taken place.
Compensation for a Catastrophic Injury
Such injuries will require a great amount of compensation. If you or someone you care about has suffered from such injuries, it is in your best interests to get in touch with a lawyer who understands these kinds of injuries. This way, enough compensation can be had.
Here are some of the factors for compensation when determined for catastrophic injuries:
- Medical bills
- Costs for the lifetime care of the injured person
- Pain and suffering
- Lost wages
- Permanent disability
A good lawyer will be able to find out what kind of compensation a catastrophic injury deserves and help you work out the process. It is certainly not an easy job trying to prove an accident with ‘’catastrophic’’ consequences but with the right evidence, it is possible.
Inability to Work
The most important reason why victims of catastrophic injuries are entered to a great amount of compensation is that they are unable to work as a result of the accident. They will not be able to get gainful work because of their condition.
As you can see, it is truly a catastrophe and only a good lawyer can help you make the case go rightfully.