Catastrophic injuries are generally defined as those that are so severe that they create a major disability, most often permanent in nature, with the resulting need for long-term medical care and assisted-living accommodations. These injuries are life-changing and impact the ability to work and to carry on normal activities and relationships. As a consequence, lawsuits seeking compensation must be handled with exceptional skill and thoroughness so that the victims can afford the lifetime assistance they deserve.
Catastrophic injuries suffered in a car crash or other type of accident can include lost limbs, traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, impaired bodily functions and facial or body disfigurement. These injuries often prevent or inhibit the victim from being able to earn an income for themselves and their immediate family. The disability may be physical or mental, and the effects are often permanent in nature. Severe injuries can also interfere with a person’s ability to pursue education, hobbies and other activities.
Those with catastrophic injuries also can suffer from depression, alcohol or drug addiction, the inability to think clearly or other psychological issues. In the absence of therapy or other appropriate treatment, the victim’s psychological condition often worsens. Some people even resort to suicide. Therefore, many injury victims require professional mental healthcare services on a long term basis.
Catastrophic injuries also affect close relationships. A physical or mental disability can significantly disrupt family life. Spouses are often forced into the role of caretaker. Children can be deprived of the time and attention of one or both parents. Close friends tend to drift apart as the victim and family members struggle with the consequences of the injuries. The stress on relationships is compounded when the victim is the family’s primary or only source of income.
Determining damages in catastrophic injury cases can be quite complicated. As injuries are often permanent, estimating the cost of medical treatment far into the future is very challenging. The costs of medical treatment, especially when multiple surgeries are required, can be astronomical. Rehabilitation services are also expensive and might be required for extended time periods or for life. In extreme cases, the victim simply cannot function without a full-time caregiver. Lost income potential is also difficult to quantify, especially when the victim is just beginning a career or is still in school. Other damages, such as emotional distress, are highly subjective and therefore extremely difficult to value. A qualified personal injury attorney can take the necessary steps to assess the type and extent of damages so that the victim is compensated fairly and adequately.
Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. in Hamden and East Haven represents accident victims throughout Connecticut. If you or a family member have been seriously injured, contact us online or call 203-745-0942 for a free initial consultation.
Gesmonde, Pietrosimone & Sgrignari, L.L.C. is located in Hamden, CT and serves clients in and around North Haven, Hamden, Waterbury, Bethany, Milford, Wallingford, Prospect, Woodbridge, Northford, Madison, Beacon Falls, Branford, Cheshire, North Branford, East Haven, Naugatuck, Meriden, Ansonia and New Haven County.
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