An accident that results in a spinal cord injury may change a person’s life forever. Spinal cord injuries may occur during a Virginia traffic accident, a fall or an act of violence. These are catastrophic injuries that medical science has not found a way to repair. Coping and compensating are the primary goals of an accident victim, although technology is improving the quality of life for many SCI victims.
Doctors weigh certain factors to measure the potential quality of life of an SCI victim. For example, someone who has gainful employment after an injury, a strong support system, and some independence and mobility may expect a higher quality of life. Those with injuries occurring later in life, many complications or more complete paralysis may have a lower quality of life.
Catastrophic injury factors
These are not set in stone, and other factors may affect whether an SCI victim finds happiness and purpose in life. One common factor that may reduce that level of happiness is the often-overwhelming financial burden accompanying such a devastating injury. Families of SCI victims may face millions of dollars in medical expenses over the lifetime of their loved one.
When catastrophic injuries are the result of someone else’s negligent or reckless actions, it may seem unfair to the victims and their families to face the expense and uncertainty the future holds. However, there are options for pursuing compensation that may alleviate some of the financial burden. While taking such action may not return life to the way it was before the accident, compensation may bring some relief that can improve one’s quality of life.
