What is a Catastrophic Injury?

A catastrophic injury is a severe injury that permanently impairs an individual’s ability to live independently or participate in gainful employment. In Wilmington, North Carolina, such injuries may be caused by car wrecks, falls, medical malpractice or acts of violence. Catastrophic injuries often result in permanent disability, paralysis, or brain damage. Treatment for these injuries can be costly and time-consuming, and many individuals require lifelong care. Due to the severity of these injuries, individuals who suffer from them often face significant challenges in their lives.

Different Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries are those that result in long-term or permanent disability. They can occur due to a one-time event, such as a car crash or medical error, or from repeated exposure to hazardous conditions, such as repeated blows to the head in contact sports. Catastrophic injuries can be either physical or psychological in nature and often result in significant financial burdens due to the costs of medical treatment and lost income. Common catastrophic injuries include:

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating injuries that a person can suffer. They often result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and other impairments that can severely reduce the victim's quality of life. In some cases, spinal cord injuries can even be fatal.

Common Causes

One of the most common ways people suffer spinal cord injuries is through car collisions. When a car crashes, the force of the impact can cause the spine to snap or compress, causing serious damage to the spinal cord. Another common cause of spinal cord injuries is falls. When a person falls from a height, they can land on their back or neck, which can break or compress the spine and damage the spinal cord.

Brain Injuries

Severe brain injuries can have a disastrous impact on victims and their families. In addition to the physical pain and suffering caused by the injury, victims may also suffer from cognitive impairments, memory loss, and emotional instability.

Common Causes

There are a number of ways in which people can suffer brain injuries. These include blows to the head, penetrating head injuries, and exposure to forces that cause the brain to collide with the skull. Brain injuries can also occur as a result of lack of oxygen, seizure activity, or an infection. In some cases, people may be born with brain damage or develop it over time due to neurodegenerative diseases.

Amputations

The loss of a limb can profoundly impact every aspect of a victim's life, from their physical health to their emotional well-being. Unfortunately, these injuries are also relatively common, particularly in industries where workers are exposed to dangerous machinery.

Common Causes

In the United States, there are approximately 185,000 amputations performed each year. When people need amputations, it is often because the affected limb has been completely crushed or severed. In some cases, amputations may also be necessary if the limb has been badly damaged by burns or other injuries.

Wilmington Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

The catastrophic injury attorneys at Daniel, Holoman & Associates LLP have the experience and resources to help victims of serious injuries. We have helped victims of car accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, and more. We understand the financial and emotional toll that a severe injury can take on a family, and we will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.

To schedule your free initial consultation, contact us today by calling us at (866) 380-2281 or by filling out our form online!