On Wednesday, September 7, 2022, the city of Memphis was turned upside down by a 19-year-old man’s rampage throughout the city. The rampage was live-streamed as four people were killed, and three severely injured. Lasting for hours until an arrest, Ezekiel Kelly terrorized the city as residents were instructed to shelter in place. Public busses and trolley services were stopped, and a minor league game was cut short due to the sheltering order. Kelley, a former convict for aggravated assault was arrested after a high-speed chase. The three who survived the attack experienced catastrophic injuries. If you or a loved one have sustained severe and life-altering injuries due to another’s neglect or ill will, it would be in your best interest to contact a catastrophic injury lawyer in Memphis TN who has experience helping victims of catastrophic injuries.
A Lasting Impact
Catastrophic injuries are severe, and typically alter the victim’s life forever. There are many ways in which an individual can receive devastating injuries. Whether another person or party accidentally harmed or neglected the victim or the injury was premeditated and they had ill will toward the victim, they are at fault and should be held accountable. Proving the guilty individual responsible can be difficult, but experienced catastrophic injury lawyers are willing and able to help their clients pursue justice and accountability.
What is the difference between personal injury cases and catastrophic injury cases?
Personal injury claims pursue compensation and justice for the victim and the emotional and physical injuries they may have sustained. Settlements may occur outside the courtroom and a former trial between an insurance company and the victims. The compensation for personal injury cases is typically lower. Catastrophic injuries will change the victim’s life forever. These types of injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, burns, vision, and hearing loss. There may be no recovery possible for these types of injuries. Because of the severity of this trauma, compensation should be significantly higher than in personal injury cases.
Financial Repercussions of Catastrophic Injuries
The financial repercussions of a catastrophic injury can be extremely burdensome for the victim, as well as their family. Medical expenses may include extended hospital stays, surgery, outpatient treatment centers, and prescription medication to name a few. Long-term care may be needed as well as accommodations for disabilities, such as handicapped vehicles, wheelchairs, beds, and other living necessities. The loss of a job and the inability to work may also greatly impact the financial burden victims feel. All of these factors should be considered when thinking about pursuing compensation. Wise catastrophic injury lawyers will consider all of the ways in which their client has suffered, and may continue to suffer in the future due to another’s actions or negligence. The team at Darrell Castle & Associates will work hard to provide the best legal representation they can offer to their clients. They strive to let their clients focus on what truly matters following a horrific accident, their health, and their recovery.
The emotional toll
Not only does a catastrophic injury affect an individual physically, but emotionally and mentally as well. Post-traumatic stress disorder otherwise referred to as PTSD, depression, and anxiety are commonly experienced following a traumatic event such as what led to a severe injury. Clients should be encouraged to seek treatment for their mental and emotional health following their traumatic accident. A catastrophic injury can negatively affect the victim’s ability to cope, rationalize, and accept their new normal. A licensed, professional therapist can greatly help those who are suffering find healing, and positive mental and emotional health. If you or a loved one are ready to pursue justice and accountability for a traumatic injury, contact a catastrophic injury lawyer today and start your journey.