What is Catastrophic Impairment?

Catastrophic impairment encompasses injuries which deliberately impede your daily life and simple tasks that require movement. These types of injuries are traumatic to the victim in ways that can forever alter their day-to-day lives. Most victims of catastrophic injuries have trouble navigating the world of insurance since they are more focused on their rehabilitation. This is why a personal injury lawyer is crucial to navigate the complicated world of insurance with you. At Findlay, we are here to help with all the necessary paperwork and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to receive the best settlement possible to aid in your recovery.

Catastrophic impairment injuries can include:

• Brain injury
• Spinal injury
• Motor impairments
• Loss of vision
• Severe burns
• Loss of limbs
• Amputation
• Internal organ damage
• Internal bleeding
• Severe bone fractures

If an injury is long lasting or has done permanent damage affecting your day-to-day life and your ability to work per usual, it may be classified as catastrophic. The most important thing to do after an injury of this sort is to make sure you are covered for your expenses. The first step is to contact a personal injury lawyer to help figure out the best steps for your recovery. Taking advantage of your rights and receiving the necessary care should be expected, but many go without ever receiving any help.

Catastrophic impairment could occur in numerous places under numerous circumstances, including:

• Motor Vehicle accidents such as truck accidents, car and motorcycle accidents, bike accidents, pedestrian accidents
• Workplace accidents
• Sport accidents
• Medical malpractice
• Product defects
• Slip and fall accidents

What qualifies as catastrophic impairment is based on a test given by medical professionals. Having a personal injury lawyer is crucial to successfully navigating this process. Our lawyers have well-established relationships with medical experts who can work in tandem to deliver you the best possible scenario for your rehabilitation. Personal injury lawyers will help with:

• Insurance companies denying your claim
• Loopholes in catastrophic impairment claims
• The ability to sue for full restitution
• Navigating the complex process
• Increasing chances of a successful claim
• Minimizing stress while you rehabilitate
• Receiving clarification on insurance
• Keeping track of records for you
• Compiling evidence for you

If you have suffered or know someone who has suffered a catastrophic injury in Ontario there are a few things you can apply for. Firstly, the victim would be entitled to The Statutory Accident Benefits (SABS). This includes benefits such as:

• Income replacement benefits
• Non-earner benefits (i.e., students)
• Medical, rehabilitation, and attendant care benefits
• Caregiver benefits
• Lost education expenses
• Housekeeping and home maintenance benefits
• Visitor’s expenses

If you have sustained an injury as a result of someone else’s negligence, you have the option to pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the perpetrator. Here at Findlay this is what we do. Simply put, without proper representation your benefits are at risk. For the reasons stated above, our personal injury lawyer team will take care of you like a part of our family. On average, it takes about a year and a half for the case to fully resolve itself, so call us as soon as possible at 905-522-9799 to be well on your way to physical, emotional, and financial recovery.