Lexington, SC Serious Injury Attorneys for Catastrophic Cases

Advocating for Victims of Catastrophic Injuries in South Carolina

Individuals who have been seriously injured in accidents face a long road to recovery. Severe injuries often require extensive medical treatment and can alter lives, especially if you’re no longer able to perform your work responsibilities or do the same kinds of activities you enjoyed prior to your accident. Our Lexington, SC, catastrophic injury attorneys are empathetic to the struggles of the seriously injured and want to help you secure the full amount of compensation you need to heal from those who caused your accident. At The Rick Hall Law Firm, LLC, we represent everyday people whose lives have been changed by both catastrophic and fatal accidents. Though we can’t completely remove the pain and trauma you’ve already suffered, we can actively work towards a better future for you and those you love.

Contact us online or by phone at (803) 590-9900 to get started on your claim. Our Lexington serious injury attorney can come to you at home or in the hospital and is available for our clients day and night.

Understanding Catastrophic Injuries: What You Need to Know

A catastrophic injury differs from minor injuries in that its seriousness leaves victims with long-lasting and permanent damage. These injuries can also have a severe impact on a person’s functional abilities – a spinal cord injury that results in paralysis, for example, prevents a person from being able to walk and requires them to adjust how they’ve been living their life.

Common catastrophic injuries suffered in accidents include:

• Loss of limbs
• Back and spinal cord injuries, including broken back, severed spinal cords, paralysis injuries, paraplegia, and quadriplegia
• Burn injuries, such as fire injuries requiring plastic surgery, skin grafts, and hospitalization, as well as chemical burns
• Head and brain injuries like concussions, head trauma, brain damage, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Fatal injuries that impact surviving family members

Virtually any kind of accident can cause catastrophic injuries. Serious auto accidents involving speeding, drunk driving, and large trucks often cause fatalities and catastrophic injuries due to the force involved and the size and weight of vehicles. Motorcycle accidents can seriously injure riders who lack outer protection.

The Impact of Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries on Your Life

Spinal cord injuries and head and brain injuries are particularly debilitating, as they can impair your ability to move freely and even think and communicate. Many victims have to quit their jobs if they can no longer perform their responsibilities, and some have to hire at-home domestic help. You may also require physical therapy or rehabilitation services for years to come.

Spinal cord injuries can cause permanent changes in your strength, sensation, and body functions below the place you were injured. Paralysis from your injuries can affect your legs and pelvic organs (paraplegia), as well as your legs, arms, and hands (tetraplegia). In addition to paralysis, spinal cord injuries can also cause changes in sexual function and fertility, cause intense pain from the nerve fibers in your spine, and can cause loss of bowel or bladder control.

Brain injuries can also have wide-ranging effects on victims that can be physical as well as psychological. Minor injuries can cause temporary effects like headaches, difficulty sleeping, nausea or vomiting, or dizziness. More serious brain injuries, however, can alter one’s consciousness and cause comas or brain death. They can also change your cognitive skills and make it difficult to concentrate or recall memories.

Recovering Damages in a Catastrophic Injury Claim

In a catastrophic injury case, victims may be entitled to various types of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Compensation for past and future medical treatment, rehabilitation, therapy, and assistive devices.
• Lost Income: Recovery of lost wages and benefits due to the inability to work, both in the past and future.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional despair, and loss of enjoyment of life.
• Disability and Disfigurement: Damages for permanent disability, scarring, and disfigurement that affect the victim's quality of life.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the impact of the injury on the victim's relationships with their spouse, children, and family members.

Important Legal Deadlines for Catastrophic Injury Claims

In the state of South Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a catastrophic injury claim is normally three years from the date of the injury. However, there are exceptions to this rule, and the time limit may vary depending on the circumstances of the case. It's crucial to consult with an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your rights are protected and that you meet all necessary deadlines.

Your Local Resource for Serious Injury Claims in Lexington, SC

Recovering from a serious injury can be an overwhelming process. For residents of Lexington, SC, the challenges go beyond physical recovery. Many face the task of navigating a complex healthcare system while trying to deal with insurance companies that may not prioritize their well-being. Fortunately, local resources like the Lexington County government offer support through health services and community groups, providing much-needed assistance during recovery.

Serious injuries often stem from auto accidents on heavily trafficked roads such as Highway 1 or workplace mishaps at local businesses. These incidents can leave individuals dealing with not only physical pain but also financial strain, particularly when long-term disabilities or inability to work come into play.

Understanding South Carolina's legal framework is an essential step in your recovery. Additionally, resources provided by the South Carolina Department of Insurance can help clarify your entitlements and offer guidance on navigating complex insurance processes. Being informed about these safeguards can empower you to make sound decisions and move forward with confidence during this challenging time.

At The Rick Hall Law Firm, LLC, we understand the struggles our neighbors face and are committed to guiding you through this tough time. Whether it’s working through legal complexities or determining the compensation you deserve, we’re here to help lighten the load so you can focus on healing.