Injuries from serious car accidents or other disastrous events are often severe, permanent and life-altering. They are known as catastrophic injuries because they leave victims with extreme emotional, financial and practical challenges. Personal injury lawsuits filed in the wake of such injuries seek enhanced amounts of damages due to the victims’ higher levels of pain and suffering and the unique and specialized care and accommodations they may require for the rest of their lives. 

The hallmark of a catastrophic injury is its enduring nature. Victims grapple with long-term consequences that can range from physical limitations to cognitive impairments. Examples of these injuries are the following:

• Traumatic brain injury — A TBI is caused by a hard impact to the skull or brain. It can occur in the workplace, on construction sites and in automobile accidents.

• Loss of limb or extremity — Whether due to trauma or medical necessity, amputation of a hand, foot or part of an arm or a leg becomes a major disability. 

• Paraplegia — This is paralysis of the legs and lower body caused by a traumatic injury to the spinal cord.

• Quadriplegia — Paralysis of all four limbs can be caused by trauma to the spinal cord or by cerebral palsy, which may be the result of a negligent birth delivery.

• Severe burns — Extensive burns can result in scarring, physical limitations and long-term pain and suffering.

However, the path to compensation is rarely smooth. It is complicated to accurately calculate future medical expenses and to factor in the potential for complications and unforeseen issues. Catastrophic injuries often create needs that extend beyond medical care. For example, amputees may require specialized prosthetics and ongoing physical therapy, while individuals with spinal cord injuries may need adapted housing and assistive technology. These needs are unique to each case and might require expert testimony to ensure fair compensation. Underestimating the costs can leave victims vulnerable to financial hardship later in life.The emotional toll of a catastrophic injury adds another dimension to these cases. The trauma of the injury and the struggle to adapt to a new life can take a significant toll on the victim's mental and emotional well-being. This might impact their ability to work, to manage their daily lives and to engage in meaningful relationships. While difficult to quantify, the emotional impact of a catastrophic injury deserves recognition and consideration in the award of compensation.

Lawyers experienced in catastrophic injury cases work with medical professionals, economists, and other experts to build a comprehensive case that accurately reflects the victim's long-term needs and the financial burdens they face.

At Brown, Novick & McKinley Attorneys at Law in Woodbury, our lawyers assist victims of serious accidents throughout southern New Jersey. To schedule a free consultation, call 866-942-4909 or contact us online.