A serious car accident can change everything in an instant. In the blink of an eye, you might suffer injuries so severe they affect your independence, your ability to work, and daily routines. These are called catastrophic injuries. They are different from other types of car accident injuries because they leave a lasting impact on nearly every part of your life. But what counts as a catastrophic injury in a Montana car accident?
We will look at the definition of a catastrophic injury and what you can expect, and we will give you the steps to secure the financial and legal support you need.
What Makes an Injury “Catastrophic?”
Not every injury suffered in a car accident is considered catastrophic. Cuts, bruises, and broken bones will usually heal over time.
However, a catastrophic injury causes long-term or permanent damage. This is the type of injury that keeps you from working, enjoying hobbies, or caring for yourself
In Montana, there is no legal definition for catastrophic injuries. However, they are usually recognized as life-altering and require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, or ongoing care.
Common Catastrophic Injuries After a Car Accident
A person can suffer from a wide range of injuries after a car wreck, but only a few are
considered catastrophic. Some of these may include:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Your brain controls every part of your body. When it is injured in a crash, the effects can be life
changing. Victims of severe TBIs may face:
- Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
- Trouble speaking or understanding
- Changes in personality and emotions
- Loss of coordination or mobility
Even with therapy, many people never regain the abilities they had before the accident.
Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis
The spinal cord is your body’s communication highway. Any damage to it can result in:
- Paraplegia or quadriplegia
- Loss of bladder or bowel control
- Chronic pain or loss of sensation
Those with these injuries will require wheelchairs, home modifications, and constant care for the remainder of their lives.
Amputations
In severe crashes, arms, legs, hands, or feet may be so badly injured that they must be amputated. For those who have to adjust to life with a prosthetic, it can be a long and emotional journey to regain independence.
Severe Burns
Burns can leave lasting scars, limit mobility, and require multiple surgeries. These accident victims can face emotional trauma on top of their physical injuries.
Organ Damage and Internal Injuries
Blunt force from a car accident can harm vital organs like the lungs, kidneys, or liver. Sometimes, these injuries lead to permanent health problems or the need for organ transplants.
Multiple Fractures and Crushed Bones
Complex breaks, especially to the pelvis or spine, can leave victims with lifelong pain. Many times, they will have limited mobility even after surgery and rehabilitation.
What Does This Mean for Your Claim?
Catastrophic injuries require more than just emergency treatment. Many car crash victims may need:
- Lifelong medical care and rehabilitation
- Special equipment or home modifications
- Help from family members or professional caregivers
- Emotional support to cope with the loss of independence
In Montana, you have the right to seek compensation for all these costs. These are not just the bills that you and your family have to deal with today, but these injuries create lifelong expenses and challenges for the rest of your life.
When your lawyer calculates your expenses, they will examine the whole picture. They will make sure that you get the maximum compensation for these devastating injuries.
Get Compensation for Your Montana Car Accident Case
Now that you know what counts as a catastrophic injury in a Montana car accident, you can take the next steps towards compensation.