What Makes an Accident Catastrophic?
When a person suffers a severe injury in an accident that leaves him or her with long-term (or permanent) impairments, the case can be classified as “catastrophic.” Catastrophic accident claims are notoriously complex. There is a lot on the line. At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., we have the experience needed to take on even the most difficult of catastrophic injury cases. Here, our Chambersburg personal injury attorneys explain what makes an accident catastrophic.
The Legal Definition of a Catastrophic Injury
Technically, “catastrophic” is not a term with specific legal meaning in the Commonwealth.
Indeed, Pennsylvania law does not use the exact term “catastrophic accident.” Still, the concept is recognized in both civil and insurance contexts. A catastrophic injury is one that results in long-term or permanent disability or impairment.
In some cases, courts and insurers reference catastrophic injuries when applying thresholds for damages. For example, Pennsylvania’s Motor Vehicle Financial Responsibility Law (75 Pa. Cons. Stat. § 1702) defines “serious injury” to include permanent disfigurement or impairment of a bodily function. That is language often used to describe catastrophic harm in auto accident cases.
Common Examples of Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries can come in many different forms, and they can occur in a wide range of different types of accidents. Catastrophic injuries often require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and assistive/adaptive equipment. Some of the most common examples of catastrophic injuries that happen in Pennsylvania include:
- Severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs);
- Compound broken bones/fractures;
- Internal organ injuries;
- Loss of limb (amputation);
- Third-degree burn injuries; and
- Spinal cord damage.
Remember, unlike minor injuries that eventually heal, catastrophic injuries frequently impose lifelong limitations and high ongoing costs. Pennsylvania courts recognize the seriousness of the harm when calculating damages for pain and suffering, loss of earning capacity, and medical care.
Why Catastrophic Cases are More Complex
Proving the full extent of damages often requires testimony from multiple experts, including medical specialists, vocational experts, and life-care planners. A top-tier Chambersburg personal injury attorney with experience handling catastrophic injury claims can help you gather evidence and present the strongest possible case.
Key Point: A person who has suffered a catastrophic injury in an accident needs full and fair compensation, including for future medical costs and non-economic losses like pain and suffering.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Chambersburg Personal Injury Lawyers Today
At DiLoreto, Cosentino & Bolinger P.C., our Chambersburg personal injury attorneys have the skills and experience to take on catastrophic accident cases. If you or a family member were hurt in a bad accident, please do not hesitate to contact us for a free case review. With an office in Chambersburg, we handle serious injury cases in Franklin County and throughout South Central Pennsylvania.