What Constitutes a Catastrophic Injury in the Context of an Auto Accident in South Carolina?

In 2022, South Carolina was home to 1,094 fatalities caused by motor vehicle crashes. If you suffer a severe injury that results in permanent disability or the loss of a body part or limb, this is known as a catastrophic injury. Given the impact of a motor vehicle collision, thousands of people suffer a catastrophic injury in an auto accident each year.

Most people who experience a catastrophic injury will need lifelong care and modifications made to their home to accommodate their disability. Along with medical expenses, an individual will likely be unable to work or may be forced to take a lower-paying position. These long-term adjustments are the reason that a catastrophic injury often results in greater damages than regular personal injury claims.

If you have experienced a debilitating injury as the result of an auto accident, our South Carolina catastrophic injury lawyers are available to assist you with your claim.

Catastrophic Injuries in Motor Vehicle Crashes

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Any blow, strike, or bump to the head can disrupt normal brain function, resulting in a traumatic brain injury or TBI. Each year, over 80,000 people suffer permanent disabilities after sustaining a TBI, many from automobile crashes. Signs of a TBI will vary based on the severity of the injury but often include nausea, dizziness, loss of consciousness, headaches, and confusion.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Your spinal cord is composed of a bundle of nerves that are encased in a tubelike structure that runs from your brain to the lower portion of your back. A spinal cord injury can impair your brain’s ability to communicate with the rest of your body. Symptoms of a spinal cord injury may present as loss of bladder or bowel control, permanent changes in strength, and loss of function below the site of injury.

Chest Injuries

A person who is involved in a motor vehicle crash may experience fractured ribs, a fractured sternum, or bruising to the lungs. Symptoms of a chest injury often include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and a crackling sound upon inhalation. If someone experiences chest trauma, they are at risk for fluid to build up between the lungs and chest wall, known as a pleural effusion. If left untreated, this can quickly become life-threatening.

What is the Worth of My Catastrophic Injury Claim?

There are several factors that will be taken into consideration when calculating the worth of your auto accident claim, such as:

• The severity of your injuries
• If you suffered any long-term disabilities
• Your mobility
• Your ability to return to work
• The length and difficulty of your recovery
• Your emotional and mental state
• Your degree of fault

Under South Carolina law, you are allowed to recover for your injuries as long as you are fifty percent or less responsible than the defendant. Known as modified comparative negligence, if you are more at fault than the defendant, then you will be barred from recovery. The insurance company will be sure to place the blame on you to avoid paying your claim, so it is crucial that you acquire counsel to advocate on your behalf.

Speak with a South Carolina Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Today

If you have suffered a catastrophic injury, you deserve adequate compensation to cover your medical expenses and lost wages. If you were hurt due to another’s negligence, our legal team is prepared to prove your lack of liability in your auto accident. To learn more or schedule a free consultation with one of our South Carolina catastrophic injury lawyers, contact us online or by phone today.