Some personal injury claims involve catastrophic injuries (which usually have severe spine damage, neck and back damage, brain damage, or the loss of upper or lower extremities) are all tragic, but common examples, even more so today than a few decades ago.
The increase in catastrophic injuries is actually due to advances in modern technology. Because first responders are better equipped to stabilize victims at the scene of an accident, those victims who once died due to their injuries now have a better chance of survival with catastrophic injuries. On the one hand, that is a favorable outcome for personal injury victims. On the other hand, it means more people will live with the serious pain and suffering related to those catastrophic injuries.
Accident survivors left with debilitating catastrophic injuries may suffer from permanent functional disabilities which may prevent them from working or affect their ability to maintain personal relationships with friends and families. Catastrophic injuries may require a lifetime of medical treatment or care, which itself closes the doors for a chance at a normal life and opportunities.
Unfortunately, no amount of financial compensation will give a victim back their life the way it was before the accident. However, when someone suffers a catastrophic injury due to someone else’s fault, they deserve compensation and justice by ensuring that responsible parties are held responsible to the accident victim.
Michigan does not have a definition for catastrophic injuries. However, in Michigan, injuries considered catastrophic are loosely defined as severe and often life-changing, causing long-term effects or permanent physical disabilities. For many people, this means having to get home attendant care caregivers to help them do every day basic tasks, such as dressing, bathing, and toileting.
In addition to a lengthy recovery process, loss of mobility and independent living, many individuals with catastrophic injuries also suffer from severe emotional distress as they learn to cope and adjust to their changed physical state and lifestyle. Catastrophic injuries may include the followin
Catastrophic injuries may include the following:
The different types of Michigan accidents that are most associated with these catastrophic injuries include the following:
Catastrophic injuries don’t just alter the lives of victims; they can transform the lives of a victim’s entire family as well. Proving liability is key to seeking damages and compensation for the well-being of you and your family in the long term.
Damages related to Michigan catastrophic injury cases are typically quite substantial. Medical expenses are often extraordinarily high in catastrophic injury cases. However, wage loss, medical expenses, and non-economic (pain and suffering) damages also factor into the total amount of the claims.
Verdicts and settlements that result in multi-million dollars in awards are common, especially for spinal cord and brain injuries. However, every case is different. The results of each Michigan personal injury lawsuit involving catastrophic injury will vary.
Many people assume that they need to suffer a catastrophic injury to receive compensation and damages in Michigan injury cases. However, that’s not always the case. When a catastrophic injury occurs due to an accident, obtaining fair and total compensation can be even more of a challenge.
Anyone who sustains a life-changing or catastrophic injury resulting from an accident should refrain from signing any settlement agreements without first consulting a personal injury lawyer. A personal injury lawyer can assess the value of your case and calculate your damages to ensure you are receiving a fair settlement. Work to gather evidence and identify liable parties to maximize the value of your claim compensation.
Once you’ve had a free consultation with the attorney, you can determine the best way to move forward, whether you decide to go it alone or rely on the assistance of personal injury lawyers.
Rest assured that no insurance company will pay the compensation you deserve without a fight.
For more information, call one of our personal injury specialists near you for help or we will come to you if you prefer.
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