Some studies suggest that thousands of lives are lost every year in preventable car accidents. These accidents are considered preventable because negligence is a factor. Negligent acts may include things like speeding, impaired driving and ignoring traffic signals.
A significant number of people are seriously injured in these types of crashes. Not only does that affect the victim, but it also affects family members. Here’s how a catastrophic injury can affect the entire family.
It can result in financial problems
A family is a unit – and typically financially interdependent. In the majority of households, both spouses are employed. When a parent is injured, they have to take time off of work to recover. This can mean an extended period of time without an income. In some cases, both spouses are injured, which means an even worse financial hit – particularly if they have children or other dependents.
Medical care can be highly costly – even with insurance. Many serious injuries require surgeries and extensive rehabilitative therapy. In some cases, a severe injury means medical assistance for life. The cost of this can total several hundred thousand dollars and more.
It can change relationships
Dealing with catastrophic injuries can put a lot of stress on the entire family. For example, a spouse may have to take on more of a caregiver role. In cases where a brain injury has occurred, an individual’s personality can completely change. Catastrophic injuries can result in loss of enjoyment in life not only for victims, but for the whole family.
Both economic and non-economic damages can be included in personal injury claims. Getting compensation for these damages is crucial to relieving some of the financial strain, even though it cannot undo the accident. Having legal guidance is crucial to protecting your right to a fair settlement.