Common Catastrophic Injuries That Occur in Car Accidents

A catastrophic injury is one of the worst possible outcomes of a car accident. This type of injury has a lifelong impact on an individual’s life, often leaving them unable to move independently, continue in the same line of work, or live independently. These injuries are enormously expensive to treat, and even with full treatment, victims often never return to their same quality of life.

If you have suffered a catastrophic injury because of someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. For South Carolina personal injury claims, call the Nowell Law Firm today at 864-707-1785 to set up a free consultation.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries are a tragically common outcome in serious car accidents. They are difficult to categorize since they vary so much in severity and prognosis. Those who suffer catastrophic TBIs are often left with lifelong deficiencies and a need for ongoing care.

Amputation

An amputation is easily one of the most traumatizing injuries an accident victim can have. A limb may be amputated during the accident itself, or damage to the limb may require surgical amputation. In many cases, a patient with one or more amputated limbs can no longer continue their previous line of work, leaving them without a steady source of income. Furthermore, the medical costs of these injuries can be substantial, as victims often need months or years or rehabilitative treatment and therapy.

Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injuries are often catastrophic in nature due to the permanent damage they cause. Damage to the spinal cord impedes brain communication with the related part of the body. Injuries high up on the spinal cord limit contact with the arms, legs, and core, so they are often the most serious. However, even injuries occurring lower on the spinal cord can leave victims immobilized or unable to sit up without additional trunk support. Some spinal cord injuries cause complete paralysis, and others cause partial paralysis.

Burns

Burns are relatively common in car accidents, due to the risk of a vehicle catching on fire. A victim can also suffer friction burns if they are thrown from the car and slide down the road. Burns have the potential to cause permanent damage to the skin and the underlying muscle and tissues.

Fractures/Broken Bones

While broken bones often occur in car accidents, catastrophic bone fractures are less common. In a simple bone break, the bone is healed with a cast and substantial rest. More complex fractures may leave the bone splintered, crushed, or shattered into many pieces. These injuries are extremely difficult to treat and often require months or years of treatment and therapy.

Discuss Your South Carolina Accident Injury Claim with Nowell Law Firm

Catastrophic injuries can leave victims and their loved ones with lifelong consequences. When someone suffers injuries like that because of someone else’s negligence, it’s only fair for the liable party to pay compensation. However, getting the amount you deserve for a catastrophic injury is difficult. We can help. To schedule a time to discuss your case, call the Nowell Law Firm at 864-707-1785 or get in touch with us online.