What is a Catastrophic Injury?

The difference between a minor, severe, and catastrophic injury is determined by the level of disability suffered by an individual. A catastrophic injury is so severe that it may leave the victim permanently disabled and unable to work again. A catastrophic injury can impede a person’s mobility, their cognitive skills, and result in sensory loss, such as blindness or deafness. The most common types of catastrophic injuries include:

• Brain Injuries: Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) occurs when the head is hit with so much force that the brain is slammed into the skull. Cognitive deficits, loss of memory, speech and mobility impairment, and a loss of independence can be permanent when a TBI occurs. TBI typically results from automobile accidents, blunt force trauma to the head, and falls from elevated surfaces.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Automobile accidents, falls, getting struck by objects, gunshot wounds, explosions, and swimming pool accidents are the most common causes of spinal cord injuries. When the spinal cord is severed, permanent paralysis can occur. A spinal cord injury can also result in lifetime pain and mobility issues.
• Severe Burns: Burn injuries can occur from chemical exposures, explosions, electrocution, and open flames. Permanent disfigurement and long recovery periods that often require multiple surgeries and carry a high risk of infection can significantly affect a victim’s quality of life and ability to work.
• Amputations: The loss of a limb is a catastrophic injury that can result in permanent disability. Prosthetics help amputees regain independence to a point, but there is no adequate replacement for an arm or a leg.  Manufacturing, construction, and motor vehicles accidents are the leading cause of amputation.
• Multiple Bone Fractures: When multiple bone fractures happen at the same time, a victim’s ability to work and remain independent can be severely impacted. Surgery, rehabilitation, and long recovery times are common. Motor vehicle, construction, manufacturing, and offshore workers are especially prone to these types of injuries.
• Organ Damage: Pharmaceutical errors, defective medical devices, and motor vehicle accidents are some of the primary causes of catastrophic organ damage. When an organ in the body is damaged, it often affects other bodily functions and systems.

What Should I Do If I Suffer a Catastrophic Injury?

Victims can hold responsible parties liable through a catastrophic injury lawsuit. Personal injury laws governing catastrophic lawsuits put the burden of proving negligence on the plaintiff. It is not always easy to prove negligence, but an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer can help victims claim the compensation they may be entitled to under the law.

Proving that the negligence of another was directly related to a victim’s injuries is necessary for a successful outcome. Detailed accident reports, copious medical records, and proof that the catastrophic injury severely impacted the victim’s ability to work is imperative to a just settlement. Compensation from a catastrophic injury claim can cover the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Los Angeles Catastrophic Injury Lawyers at ACTS LAW, LLP Help Victims Claim Compensation

If you were a victim of a catastrophic injury, call the Los Angeles catastrophic injury lawyers at ACTS LAW, LLP today. We will fight to obtain the compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us at 833-228-7529 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. Located in Los Angeles and San Diego, we serve clients throughout California.