In the United States, catastrophic injuries cause more than 200,000 deaths every year, making them the fourth most common cause of death in 2020, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
A catastrophic injury is a severe and debilitating injury that can have long-term consequences. This type of injury usually results in permanent disability or a lengthy recovery period.
Catastrophic injuries often occur due to car accidents, truck accidents, workplace accidents, and slip and fall accidents. In fact, any type of accident that causes severe physical or psychological trauma can be considered a catastrophic injury.
Types of Catastrophic Injuries
There are many different types of catastrophic injuries, but some of the most common include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a type of brain damage that is caused by a blow to the head or a penetrating head injury. TBIs can range from mild concussions to more severe injuries, such as comas and skull fractures. Symptoms of a TBI can include: headaches, dizziness, confusion, mood swings, sleep disorders, and memory problems.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are another common type of catastrophic injury. These injuries can occur when the spine is damaged, resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Spinal cord injuries often result from car accidents, falls, and sports-related injuries. Symptoms of a spinal cord injury can include loss of movement, loss of sensation, and difficulty breathing.
Paralysis
Paralysis is a type of catastrophic injury resulting from a TBI, spinal cord injury, or another type of accident. Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in one or more body parts. There are two types of paralysis.
If an individual loses all muscle function in an affected area, they are considered completely paralyzed; an individual who is partially paralyzed still has some muscle function in the affected area.
Birth Injuries
A birth injury is a type of catastrophic injury that can occur during the birthing process. Birth injuries can be caused by a variety of factors, such as medical negligence, complications during pregnancy, or complications during labor and delivery. Symptoms of a birth injury can vary depending on the type and severity of the injury.
Catastrophic Loss of Eyesight or Hearing
Catastrophic injuries can also result in the loss of eyesight or hearing. These injuries can be caused by car accidents or falls. Symptoms of a loss of vision or hearing can include: blindness, deafness, and difficulty communicating.
Chronic Illness
A chronic illness is a type of catastrophic injury caused by exposure to hazardous materials, such as asbestos. Chronic conditions can also be caused by medical negligence. Symptoms of a chronic disease can include fatigue, pain, and difficulty breathing.
Catastrophic Amputation
Catastrophic amputation injuries are another type of severe injury that can result from an accident. These injuries often result from car, motorcycle, or work-related accidents.
The Importance of Seeking an Attorney
Suffering from a catastrophic injury can be a life-changing event. Not only do you have to deal with the physical pain and suffering, but you may also face financial difficulties. Many people who suffer from catastrophic injuries cannot return to work, making it difficult to pay for medical bills and other living expenses.
It’s essential to seek the help of a skilled personal injury attorney who can help you recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track. A personal injury attorney will investigate your accident, gather evidence, and build a solid case to help you recover the maximum amount of compensation possible.
Dedicated Attorneys, Consistent Results at Ori Law Group
At Ori Law Group, our personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. We have experience handling all types of personal injury cases, including those involving catastrophic injuries.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take on victims and their families, and we will fight to get you as much compensation as possible. Call us today at 312-985-0299 or fill out our online form to request a free consultation. Call today — don’t delay.