What are Catastrophic Injuries?
Catastrophic injury settlements in Ontario differ significantly from those for non-catastrophic injuries. Both types of claims often require thorough investigation and rely heavily on medical records, but the key difference lies in their severity. Catastrophic injury compensation tends to be higher because these injuries often require lifelong treatment or care.
If you have experienced a severe injury, it can be beneficial to understand the nature of catastrophic injury compensation in Ontario.
What Makes Up These Claims and How a Lawyer Can Help Resolve Them?
Understanding Settlements For Catastrophic Injury in Ontario
In Ontario, a catastrophic injury is defined as a serious injury to the brain, spine, or spinal cord. It may also include fractures of the skull or spinal column. These injuries typically result from violent trauma or complications stemming from the initial injury. Catastrophic injuries often have long-term or permanent effects, making it difficult to meet daily needs or maintain employment.
Types of Catastrophic Injuries
While any severe injury could potentially qualify as catastrophic, four major categories are commonly recognized as catastrophic:
- Severe Burns – Not all burns are catastrophic. Burns are classified into four degrees, with first-degree burns being minor and healing in just a few days. Severe third- and fourth-degree burns can cause permanent nerve damage, scarring, or even death.
- Spinal Injuries – SSpinal cord injuries are generally severe because the spinal cord plays a vital role in transmitting signals between the brain and the body. Damage to the spinal cord can have significant, long-lasting effects.
- Paralysis – Paralysis is often associated with spinal cord injuries. It can result from damage to the head or neck, leading to the loss of motor control or sensation in certain body parts. Paralysis can be localized to a single limb or affect broader areas of the body, depending on the location of the injury.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries – These injuries occur when the brain is impacted by significant force, such as blunt trauma or a penetrating injury. Brain injuries are complex and can be difficult to diagnose initially since symptoms may emerge gradually. Symptoms can include tremors, headaches, changes in personality, and nausea.
Compensation Available in a Catastrophic Injury Settlement in Ontario
A catastrophic injury can lead to substantial financial compensation due to the high costs associated with treatment and the long-term emotional and physical consequences that can change a person’s life permanently.
Medical expenses typically make up the largest portion of a catastrophic injury claim. This includes not only emergency room bills but also long-term costs like physical therapy, surgeries, and any medical devices that may be required.
Many catastrophic injuries result in ongoing physical pain. In some cases, you may be entitled to compensation for the pain and suffering caused by the injury. The severity of the injury often dictates the settlement amount awarded for pain and suffering.
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This can cover wages lost before the lawsuit was filed as well as potential future earnings that you may miss out on due to your injuries.
Have You or a Loved One Experienced a Catastrophic Injury in Ontario?
If you or someone close to you has suffered a catastrophic injury in Ontario, and the injury resulted from someone else’s negligence, you could be entitled to significant compensation through a catastrophic injury settlement.
