Paralysis is one possible result of a catastrophic injury, but it is not the only one. A severe injury may permanently affect a person’s ability to work, communicate, move independently or perform everyday activities even when the spinal cord remains intact. Examples of these types of injuries include brain injuries, amputations, severe burns and loss of sight, all of which can have lasting effects on a person’s health and daily life. Understanding the severity of these injuries can help injured people recognize the long-term impact of their injuries.
Injuries that affect the brain and nerves
A traumatic brain injury can cause lasting problems with memory, speech, concentration or behavior without affecting a person’s ability to walk. These changes may interfere with employment, relationships and the ability to handle everyday responsibilities.
Serious nerve damage can also cause significant impairment without damaging the spinal cord. Depending on the affected nerves, a person may experience chronic pain, muscle weakness, numbness or reduced control of certain parts of the body. Some people may require ongoing treatment or adjustments to the way they work and complete daily tasks.
Other injuries with lasting effects
Catastrophic harm can also involve the loss or permanent impairment of a body part or physical function. An amputation, for example, may require rehabilitation, a prosthetic device and changes to a person’s home or workplace. The injury may also limit the type of work the person can perform.
Severe burns can require multiple surgeries and extensive rehabilitation. They may leave permanent scarring, restricted movement or lasting nerve damage. Similarly, permanent vision loss can affect a person’s ability to drive, work and navigate unfamiliar surroundings independently.
The consequences of these injuries vary from person to person. Their severity, expected recovery and effect on daily activities can help show the extent of the harm an injured person has experienced.
Considering the long-term impact
When a serious injury has lasting effects, its financial impact may extend well beyond the initial medical treatment. Future care, rehabilitation, lost income and reduced earning capacity may become important considerations when evaluating damages in a personal injury claim.
For this reason, assessing a catastrophic injury involves more than identifying the diagnosis. An attorney can review how the injury occurred and its short- and long-term consequences to help an injured person understand the legal options that may apply under Minnesota law.
