There is no doubt that motor vehicle crashes are a top cause of catastrophic injuries in the U.S.
Many motor vehicle crashes result in injuries that have long-term or permanent consequences. These injuries can dramatically affect the lives of crash victims and their families, leading to significant physical, emotional and financial burdens. The following particularly consequential long-term crash injuries are among the most common suffered by those involved in catastrophic accidents.
Paralysis
Paralysis generally develops when an individual’s spinal cord is damaged, disrupting the communication between the brain and the muscles. Paralysis can be partial (paraplegia) or complete (quadriplegia), depending on the location and severity of the spinal cord injury.
Paralysis is not only physically debilitating but can also be emotionally and financially draining. Crash victims that sustain this kind of harm may require extensive medical treatment, adaptive equipment and modifications to their vehicles and homes.
Brain damage
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) often develop when the brain collides with the inside of the skull during a crash, leading to bruising, bleeding and/or swelling. The effects of a TBI can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, connected to symptoms that may include memory loss, cognitive impairments and personality changes.
Brain injuries can profoundly affect an individual’s quality of life, potentially including their ability to work, maintain relationships and perform everyday tasks. The cost of long-term care, rehabilitation and lost income can be overwhelming for both victims of this kind of harm and their families.
Loss of limb
Amputation of a limb is another catastrophic injury that can result from motor vehicle crashes. This injury occurs when a limb is either severed during an accident or damaged so severely that it requires surgical removal. Losing a limb can drastically change a person’s life, potentially affecting mobility, independence and emotional well-being.
Victims of amputation often face significant physical and psychological challenges. They may require prosthetic limbs, extensive physical therapy and modifications to their home and vehicle to accommodate their new circumstances. Additionally, the emotional trauma of losing a limb can lead to depression, anxiety and difficulty adjusting to a new way of life.
With all of this said, no one manages the challenges associated with a catastrophic injury in the exact same way. Seeking personalized medical and legal guidance can help to ensure that victims of harm are provided with the unique support that they require.