It’s not uncommon for someone who has been involved in a serious vehicle collision or other accident or event to suffer what is known as “polytrauma.” This means that they have traumatic injuries to multiple parts of their body.
Polytrauma is a leading cause of death for Americans of all ages. However, thanks to advancements in medical care and quick interventions that often start at a Level 1 trauma center, people can and do recover from polytraumatic injuries.
Common physical and emotional injuries associated with polytrauma
That recovery, however, can take years of treatment, hospitalizations, surgeries, physical and occupational therapy and more. Survivors can be dealing with the physical and psychological effects of their injuries for the rest of their lives.
Among the injuries often involved in polytrauma are:
- Amputations
- Blindness
- Burns
- Spinal cord injuries/paralysis
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and resulting cognitive issues
Survivors of particularly violent or catastrophic accidents can suffer post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as well – particularly if they were conscious during and after the event or already suffer from anxiety or other mental health issues.
Why accepting an early settlement offer is unwise
Even the immediate medical expenses involved with emergency care for polytraumatic injuries can be overwhelming for a family. It can certainly be tempting to accept an early settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurer.
Accepting an early settlement, however, can prevent survivors from being able to seek additional compensation once the full extent and cost of the injuries is better understood. By getting early and experienced legal guidance, survivors and their loved ones can protect their rights to get the compensation they need over the long term to cover medical care, therapy, modifications to their home, lost wages and more while they focus on healing.