Injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, burn injuries, and severe lacerations or amputations can have lifelong consequences.
Injuries can happen instantly, but their impact can last a lifetime. For victims of serious accidents, the road to recovery can be physically, emotionally, and financially taxing. Understanding the four major injuries commonly seen in personal injury law can help victims and their families take the necessary steps toward recovery, both medically and legally.
If you or a loved one has experienced any of these injuries, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and how a personal injury lawyer can help you navigate this challenging process.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs)
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) are one of the most severe injuries an individual can sustain and can be caused by a sudden impact to the head. TBIs are a common result of car accidents, nasty falls, and sports injuries. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage that leads to long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical impairments.
It’s always good to be aware of the symptoms of Traumatic Brain injuries so that you or a loved one who has hit their head due to an accident can seek the medical assistance you need as soon as possible. Symptoms may include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Vision Issues
- Memory Loss
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Mood Swings
- Paralysis or Permanent Disability
Treatment for TBIs requires extensive medical care. Depending on the severity of the injury, the individual may need only rehabilitation or lifelong care.
Spinal Cord Injuries
After high-impact accidents, such as motor vehicle crashes, falls, or workplace accidents, spinal cord injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. The spinal cord is a communication pathway for the brain and the rest of the body.
Damage to the spinal cord affects a person’s ability to move, feel, or even breathe. Long-term medical care, mobility aids, and support for individuals suffering from a spinal cord injury can help offer peace of mind and support to them and their families.
Burn Injuries
Burn injuries are painful, severe, and can lead to lifelong scarring and in some cases, disfigurement. They can result from exposure to fire, hot surfaces, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. There are three categories of burns: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree burns.
The more severe the burn is, the greater the risk of complications. The possible complications include:
- Infection and Sepsis
- Chronic Pain
- Shock
- Scarring
The emotional and psychological trauma is just as significant as the physical recovery. The painful and lengthy healing process can cause anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, as burns often lead to lasting scars.
Severe Lacerations and Amputations
Severe lacerations and amputations typically result from accidents involving sharp objects, machinery, or vehicles. Lacerations can range from minor cuts to major gashes, while amputations involve the physical loss of a body part, for example, a finger, hand, or even a limb.
The loss of a limb can lead to the use of prosthetics and rehabilitation, while severe lacerations can lead to permanent scarring or the loss of the affected area altogether. The recovery process for both is long, painful, and costly.
Common Causes of Major Injuries
Major injuries can happen in many different ways, often as a result of accidents that are unpredictable or caused by negligence. Here are some common causes:
- Trips and Falls
- Slips, trips, and falls are a leading cause of serious injuries.
- Common scenarios include wet floors, uneven surfaces, or poorly maintained walkways.
- These accidents can lead to fractures, head injuries, or even spinal cord damage.
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Car accidents are another frequent cause of major injuries.
- Common injuries from these accidents include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal injuries, and broken bones.
- The severity of the injury often depends on the speed of the collision and whether safety precautions, like seat belts, were used.
- Contact with Objects and Equipment
- Injuries from machinery, tools, or falling objects can occur at work or home.
- In environments like construction sites or factories, heavy machinery and equipment pose significant risks.
- These injuries can range from severe cuts and lacerations to amputations and fractures.
Legal Steps to Take With Queens Car Accident Lawyer After Suffering One of the Four Major Injuries
If you’ve sustained one of the four major injuries in a car accident, taking the right legal steps is crucial to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Below are the key actions you should take:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health should always be the top priority after a car accident. Seek medical care right away, even if the injury seems minor. Some injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), may not show symptoms immediately, so early diagnosis and treatment are important.
- Report the Incident: Depending on where the accident occurred, you need to report the incident to the appropriate party. Whether it’s your employer, the property owner, or a responsible third party, make sure to document the details of the accident.
- Document Everything: Take detailed notes on how the accident happened, photograph any visible injuries, and collect all relevant medical records. This documentation will serve as critical evidence when filing a claim and working with your car accident lawyer.
- Consult a Queens Car Accident Lawyer: Consulting with a skilled personal injury lawyer who specializes in car accident cases can help you understand your legal rights. A trusted lawyer can guide you through the process, assist in gathering evidence, and advocate on your behalf to secure fair compensation.
- File a Claim: Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be entitled to file a claim for compensation. Your lawyer will ensure your claim is filed on time, with all necessary documentation, and that it accurately reflects the extent of your injuries and damages.
- Consider Legal Deadlines: Every state has a statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim. Missing the deadline could prevent you from pursuing your case. A knowledgeable lawyer will help ensure that all deadlines are met and that your rights are protected.
How Queens Car Accident Attorneys Can Help You Recover From the Four Major Injuries
Suffering a major injury can be life-changing, but an experienced car accident lawyer can help you recover both physically and financially. Here’s how a lawyer can assist you in your recovery process:
- Investigate the Case: Your lawyer will investigate the details of the accident, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and review medical records to build a strong case in your favor. This thorough investigation is critical for securing the compensation you deserve.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to settle claims for less than what you deserve. A skilled lawyer will fight to ensure you receive fair compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They’ll handle negotiations on your behalf to avoid being taken advantage of.
- Help You Understand Your Legal Rights: Navigating the legal system can be confusing, especially if you’re dealing with a serious injury. A car accident lawyer will help you understand your rights, explain your options, and ensure you are treated fairly throughout the process.
- Represent You in Court: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will advocate for your best interests to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Major Injuries and Legal Action in Car Accidents
Injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, burn injuries, and severe lacerations or amputations can have lifelong consequences. These types of injuries are often devastating, but knowing the proper legal steps to take is essential for recovery.
If you or a loved one has suffered a major injury in a car accident, consulting an experienced car accident lawyer in Queens, NY, is a crucial first step. A skilled lawyer can help you get the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—reach out to an aggressive and knowledgeable lawyer today to discuss your case and take the first step toward recovery.
Need Help? Contact Queens Car Accident Attorneys Today
If you’ve experienced any of these major injuries due to an accident, reach out for a consultation. Accident lawyers in Queens, NY, can provide the support and legal expertise you need to recover.
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