What You Should Do After Sustaining Catastrophic Injuries

Over 3 million non-fatal injuries occur in the U.S. every year. Sadly, although minor issues like sprains and bruises are common, some people sustain catastrophic injuries like multiple bone fractures, severe burns, and spinal cord problems.

Diverse events can lead to catastrophic injuries. These include auto accidents, medical malpractice, and workplace incidents. If you are involved in any of these events and sustain a severe injury, follow the steps outlined below.

Ensure You Are Safe

Most scenarios that lead to catastrophic injuries leave potential hazards. For example, dangerous materials like gasoline, which is highly flammable, often spill during car accidents. Moreover, traffic flow around a crash scene can put victims' lives at risk.

With the above in mind, as a victim of a catastrophic injury, you should first try to establish what caused your injury. Then, check if the incident is likely to happen again and whether you are in a safe location. For instance, if you are a victim of an auto crash, examine your current position to see if you are still in harm's way. Once you've established personal safety, check on the other victims, if any are present. But only do that if your injuries allow it. If not, stay calm and wait for help.

Seek Medical Attention

The extent of your injuries determines how you should seek medical attention. For example, you can drive yourself to the nearest health facility if you have minor fractures. But if symptoms indicate you have a severe injury, seek emergency assistance immediately.

For instance, if you were involved in an accident and experienced symptoms of traumatic brain injury, like convulsions or any other unusual behavior, call 911 immediately. When you call 911, the dispatcher will ask for your incident's details and dispatch medical care. Also, you should contact this authority because its professionals record calls, which can come in handy when you need evidence to support your claim.

Although most catastrophic injuries manifest immediately after an incident, some don't. For instance, you may notice delayed symptoms of a spinal injury weeks after an auto crash. To ensure you get prompt medical attention, check in with a doctor after an accident, even if you don't show any apparent symptoms of a catastrophic injury.

Report the Incident

Remember to report the incident that led to your injuries to the relevant authorities. For example, if the culprit is a car accident, contact the police. On the other hand, you should report medical malpractices to your state's medical complaint board. And if you are a workplace accident victim, call Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

You should report a serious incident because the relevant authorities use your information to ascertain and investigate the risks. For instance, OSHA can use your statement to investigate an incident's cause and suggest measures to prevent future occurrences. Additionally, you can use your report to support your claim in court, which makes you more likely to obtain compensation.

Gather Evidence

Various pieces of evidence besides incident reports can help you win a case in court. The first is photographic evidence, which a mobile phone with a good camera can help you gather. Ensure you take clear pictures that depict the scene as is.

Witness statements are also important because you may be unable to recall the incident perfectly. Witnesses can remind you of missed details and attest to your story in court.  Ask people on the scene to narrate what they've witnessed and write everything down. Don't forget to note crucial information like witnesses' names and home addresses.

Find an Attorney

A catastrophic injury can undermine your ability to work and lead to financial hardships. However, as a victim, you may be entitled to compensation, which can help you pay hospital bills and recover lost wages. That said, court processes can be complicated, and insurance companies may do all they can to fight your claim. Luckily, experienced attorneys can help you.

If you have life-altering injuries and need legal support, contact Wegner & Associates without hesitation. Our team will help you get the justice and settlement you deserve. Call us today for a free consultation.