Fairfax, VA Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Trusted Catastrophic Injury Lawyers Fighting for the Seriously Injured in Fairfax, Virginia

While injuries can be painful, and they can affect people in many ways, there are some types of injuries that can completely redefine a person's life. A catastrophic injury can affect a victim physically, emotionally, and financially, and a complete recovery may not be possible. These injuries can permanently change the way a person lives, and when an injury has been caused by someone else's negligence, a victim may be compensated for the harm they have suffered.

At Shevlin Smith, P.C., our lawyer understands the seriousness of catastrophic injuries. He can provide an honest assessment of a case, helping an injury victim determine what options are available. He works personally with clients to address their needs, and he will fight to obtain compensation that will cover the financial losses, emotional trauma, and other effects of a catastrophic injury, helping to ensure that a person will have the resources they need during the rest of their life.

Types of Damages in Catastrophic Injury Cases

Because the consequences of catastrophic injuries can extend far into the future, the damages that may be available in these cases can go beyond what may be covered by personal injury claims related to less serious injuries. These damages may include:

• Medical Expenses: All treatment costs related to a catastrophic injury will need to be addressed. These may include past medical expenses, such as emergency care and hospitalization. Future medical expenses may also be covered, addressing the care that will be needed going forward, including doctor visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation.
• Lost Income: In addition to the wages a person has been unable to earn during their recovery, they may also be compensated for the loss of future earning capacity. Catastrophic injuries will often prevent a person from working in jobs they have held in the past, reduce the number of hours they can work, or limit their ability to work at all. A person may be compensated for the income they will lose throughout their career due to an injury.
• Pain and Suffering: These damages may address the physical pain and emotional distress that a catastrophic injury has caused. They may include the loss of enjoyment of life and issues that affect a person's ability to participate in the activities or maintain important relationships.
• Other Damages: A person may be compensated for the costs of personal care when they will need assistance with daily activities. This may include the costs of hiring a professional caregiver or the impact on a family member who will be providing care. Compensation may also address the costs of home and vehicle modifications to accommodate a disability or other expenses related to an injury.

Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Brain Injuries

A traumatic brain injury can affect a person's memory, concentration, ability to think and react, ability to regulate emotions, and physical functions. Some brain injuries may lead to permanent mental disabilities, personality changes, and other issues that can affect a person's ability to work and maintain relationships.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Damage to the spinal cord can affect functions throughout the body. Spinal cord injuries such as herniated discs or compressed nerves can lead to a partial loss of function. Severe spine injuries may result in total paralysis. The location of the injury along the spine may determine which parts of the body will be affected and to what degree.

Paralysis

A spinal cord injury or other types of nerve damage can result in paralysis that may affect a single limb, one side of the body, the lower body, or all four limbs and the torso. People living with paralysis injuries may need adaptive equipment, home modifications, and full-time or part-time personal care.

Broken Bones

While some bone fractures may heal without long-term consequences, injuries involving joints, multiple fractures, or other forms of serious harm can lead to limitations affecting a person's strength, range of motion, and their ability to use different body parts. Some fractures may require surgery, and they may lead to issues such as arthritis, chronic pain, and long-term disabilities.

Burn Injuries

Severe burns can be very painful, and they can lead to a variety of complications. A third-degree or fourth-degree burn may not only destroy the skin, but underlying tissues, nerves, and bones may also be injured. Surgery such as skin grafts may be needed, and a person may be hospitalized for an extended period. Burn injuries may result in permanent scarring and severe disfigurement.

Amputations

The loss of a limb will permanently affect a person. Amputations will often require extensive rehabilitation. Prosthetic limbs may be needed, but the expenses involved in fitting, maintenance, and replacement of these devices can be significant. A person may experience phantom limb pain and emotional trauma as they adapt to life after an amputation.

Internal Organ Damage

In a car accident or another situation involving an impact to a person's body, internal organs may be damaged. These injuries may affect the kidneys, liver, lungs, spleen, intestines, heart, or other organs. A person may experience internal bleeding that may put their life at risk, and emergency surgery may be needed. In some cases, internal organ damage can lead to permanent impairments.

Contact Our Fairfax, Virginia Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

After suffering a serious injury, you will need to understand how your life may be affected, how you can pay for medical care, how you can address lost income and other financial losses, and how you can protect your rights. At Shevlin Smith, P.C., our lawyer can provide the legal help you need in this situation, taking the time to document the full extent of your damages and working to obtain financial compensation that will meet your ongoing needs. Contact our Fairfax catastrophic injury claim attorney at 703-591-0067 to arrange your free consultation.