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A catastrophic injury is a life-altering event that has a significant and long-term impact on the victim’s physical, emotional, social, and psychological well-being. Such injuries can occur in many ways—from car accidents to workplace accidents, medical malpractice to slip-and-fall incidents—but no matter the cause, the effects are always devastating. So what exactly makes an injury “catastrophic”? Let’s take a look.
Defining Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries are defined as any injury that results in long-term disability or disfigurement. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Amputations
- Paralysis
- Severe burns
- Fractures
While these types of injuries may seem obvious in terms of their severity, they can also include conditions such as chronic pain syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression and other psychological traumas. All of these can be considered catastrophic in nature due to their negative impacts on daily life.
Consequences of Catastrophic Injuries
The consequences of a catastrophic injury can be far-reaching and long-lasting. Physical damage can result in lifelong disabilities or impairments; if an individual loses mobility or function due to an injury, they may require ongoing care for physical therapy and other rehabilitative therapies.
Psychological trauma can last for years after the initial event; victims often struggle with depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder, resulting in lost wages or career opportunities due to decreased productivity levels or disruptions in day-to-day functioning.
Finally, the financial costs associated with catastrophic injuries can be exorbitant; medical bills alone can easily exceed hundreds of thousands of dollars when factoring in hospital stays and treatments required over time.
How a Personal Injury Attorney Can Help
If you have suffered a catastrophic injury caused by someone else’s negligence, then it is important to seek legal counsel right away, as you may be entitled to compensation for your damages. An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to provide guidance on how best to pursue justice against those responsible for your distress so that you can focus on recovering from your traumatic experience without having to worry about financial hardship at the same time. By understanding what makes an injury “catastrophic,” you will be better equipped should you ever find yourself dealing with such a situation yourself or someone close to you.
Catastrophic Injury Attorneys in Gulfport, MS
At Gulf South Law Firm, we understand how devastating a catastrophic injury can be, both physically and emotionally. We are committed to providing our clients with the highest quality legal representation so that they can pursue justice without having to worry about financial concerns.
If you or someone you know has suffered a catastrophic injury, contact us today at (228) 231-3989 for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will work diligently on your behalf.