Catastrophic injury has been defined as ‘one where the consequences of the injury permanently prevent an individual from performing any gainful work.’ One article pointed out that, “In other words, after suffering a catastrophic injury, the victim can no longer maintain a job that allows them to support themselves or their families. The victim has lost a lifetime of wages and benefits as well as the sense of purpose and wholeness that comes with meaningful work, not to mention inferring enormous medical bills.” Therefore, what are the likely damages an individual can claim for after suffering catastrophic injuries? It is important to note that the damages incurred for catastrophic injuries are often greater than the standard personal injury incurred in an accident and in addition to that the compensation possible is usually more as well.

It should be noted that the resulting catastrophic injury usually places more serious damage to the body at the neck, in the back, on the spine and to the head. As a result such injuries can leave the individual disabled temporarily or permanently. In more severe cases catastrophic injuries will end the life of the victim and can change a personal injury claim into a wrongful death claim. In order to increase the strength of your catastrophic injury claim it is necessary to find legal advice and representation from an accident attorney in Wasilla.

Catastrophic injury victims who suffer more severe injuries include motorcyclists, pedestrians or employees suffering from bodily harm as a result of a company, entity or other parties that have inflicted the harm. Because catastrophic injuries harm a person in the most extreme ways it is necessary to have legal representation for your claim. One of the main roles a lawyer has is that of calculating the possible compensation for the claim. Commenting on calculating damages in catastrophic injury cases one article noted, “When in an accident that causes catastrophic injury, the victim will need to hire a lawyer that can either hire another professional or can calculate damages alone. These items may include various issues specifically to this case, and the lawyer will need to add the numerous issues together once he or she realizes what he or she should include. These damages may increase if the current medical treatment requires additional medication and therapy in the future. Permanent disability can increase a claim as well as any corrective surgeries that become important in the future years.” The damages associated with catastrophic injury include the current and any future medical costs along with medication and therapy - this factors in physical therapy, in-home medical care, nursing assistance and future procedures. In addition, pain and suffering during the entire ordeal is significant and generally increases the claim greatly. Lack of income as well as any potential to earn income in the future is taken into consideration and factors in aspects such as any promotions, various leave days and the chances of rising up the corporate ladder. Another key damage taken into consideration is the decrease in the quality of life as it is permanent.

Having a lawyer represent you in your catastrophic injury claim is invaluable as they are able to perform all the duties necessary to maneuver your claim, while you - as the victim - focus on getting better.