Crush Injury Lawyer Cleveland

Accidents, whether they occur while driving, at work, or even in the home, can result in a variety of injuries, including crush injuries. A crush injury occurs when impact is so severe that it breaks your bone(s), and destroys your muscles, joints and ligaments. 

Catastrophic Crush Injuries Include:

Fractured Skulls

A crush injury is a catastrophic injury, often resulting in damage to the underlying structures. When a crush injury affects the head, it can potentially result in a fractured skull.

A fractured skull can result in life-altering affects, depending on the severity and specific location of the fracture.

1. Brain injury: The impact that caused a fractured skull can also injure the brain, which is a very serious injury. If the force is strong enough, it may cause bruising, bleeding, or swelling within the brain tissue, potentially leading to a traumatic brain injury. The severity of the brain injury can vary and may result in physical, cognitive, or emotional changes.

2. Neurological symptoms: A fractured skull can damage nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. These symptoms can be localized or affect larger areas of the body, depending on the extent of nerve damage.

3. Cognitive and behavioral changes: Depending on the location and severity of the skull fracture, it is possible to experience cognitive impairments such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, or changes in mood and behavior. These changes can have a significant impact on daily life and may require rehabilitation and support.

4. Sensory disturbances: Fractures in the skull can also affect the sensory organs, leading to changes in vision, hearing, or the sense of smell. Damage to the facial bones may cause facial numbness or altered sensation.

5. Long-term complications: In some cases, a fractured skull may require surgical intervention to stabilize the bones or to address associated injuries. Long-term complications can include chronic pain, the risk of infection, or the need for ongoing medical care.

Fractured skulls are catastrophic injuries, which I have 40 years of experience working with in personal injury law. If you’ve sustained injuries in a car accident, or on the job where something heavy or forceful fell on you, you need to call me. A crush injury can be devastating to you and your family, and you need my help. I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Spinal Cord Injury

A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when there is damage to the spinal cord, which is a bundle of nerves that carries signals between the brain and the rest of the body. Crush injuries can be disastrous, especially when something has crushed your back. SCI is life-changing. The severity of the injury depends on the location of the injury along the spinal cord.

Life Changes Associated with Spinal Cord Injuries:

1. Paralysis: One of the most significant effects of spinal cord injuries is paralysis. The extent of paralysis depends on the level and completeness of the injury. Injuries above the neck may result in quadriplegia, where all four limbs and possibly the trunk are affected. Injuries below the neck may result in paraplegia, which typically affects the lower body.

2. Loss of Sensation: Spinal cord injuries can cause a loss or alteration of sensation below the level of injury. This can include a loss of temperature sensation, touch, or proprioception (the ability to sense body position).

3. Impaired Motor Function: Motor function can be significantly affected by spinal cord injuries. This can result in difficulties with voluntary movements, muscle weakness, spasticity, or coordination problems.

4. Bowel and Bladder Dysfunction: Spinal cord injuries can disrupt the normal function of the bowel and bladder. This can lead to changes in bowel movements, urinary incontinence, or the need for catheterization to empty the bladder.

5. Sexual Dysfunction: Injuries to your spinal cord can impact sexual function and fertility. Depending on the level and completeness of the injury, individuals may experience changes in sexual sensation, fertility issues, or challenges with sexual arousal and function.

6. Respiratory Complications: Injuries at higher levels of the spinal cord, particularly in the cervical region, can affect respiratory muscles and control. This can result in respiratory difficulties, requiring the use of assistive devices for breathing.

7. Cardiovascular Issues: Crushed spinal cords can disrupt the normal regulation of blood pressure, heart rate, and circulation. This can lead to issues such as low blood pressure, autonomic dysreflexia (a potentially dangerous rise in blood pressure), or an increased risk of blood clots.

8. Chronic Pain: Many individuals with spinal cord injuries experience chronic pain, which can be neuropathic (resulting from nerve damage) or musculoskeletal in nature. Pain management is an important aspect of rehabilitation and quality of life for individuals with SCI.

9. Emotional and Psychological Impact: Spinal cord injuries can have a significant emotional and psychological impact on individuals. Feelings of grief, depression, anxiety, and adjustment difficulties are common. Access to mental health support and counseling is essential for coping and managing these challenges.

A catastrophic accident, like a crush injury, can cause severe injury to your spinal cord, which can change your life forever. Help, even for day-to-day activities can be very expensive, not to mention the piling medical bills you will have. I have helped the people of Cleveland, Ohio for my entire career, and I’m here for your personal injury claim. Call me today, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Amputations

An amputation is the surgical or traumatic removal of a body part, typically a limb, such as an arm or a leg. A crush injury may result in amputation in certain circumstances.

Effects and Life Changes Associated with Amputations:

1. Loss of Function: The primary reason for an amputation is the loss of function and mobility in the amputated limb. Depending on the level of the amputation, you may experience difficulties with balance, coordination, and performing tasks that were previously routine. Rehabilitation and prosthetic devices can aid in restoring some level of function.

2. Phantom Limb Sensation and Pain: After amputation, you may experience phantom limb sensation, which is the perception of sensations or pain in the amputated limb. Phantom limb pain can be distressing and may require pain management techniques or medications.

3. Psychological and Emotional Impact: Amputations can have a profound psychological and emotional impact. Feelings of grief, loss, depression, anxiety, and body image issues are common. Counseling and support from mental health professionals, as well as peer support groups, can be valuable in coping with these challenges.

4. Adaptation and Rehabilitation: Amputations often require extensive rehabilitation to adapt to their new circumstances. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehabilitation can help you regain strength, mobility, and functional independence.

5. Prosthetic Devices: Prosthetic limbs are artificial devices designed to replace the missing limb. They can assist individuals in restoring mobility and functionality. The use of prosthetics may involve a period of adjustment and learning to use the device effectively.

6. Lifestyle Modifications: You may have various lifestyle modifications to accommodate the changes. This may involve making adjustments to your living environment, incorporating assistive devices, and learning new techniques for daily activities such as self-care, mobility, and transportation.

7. Social and Vocational Impact: This can have an impact on social interactions and employment. You may face challenges in terms of societal attitudes, accessibility, and reintegration into the workforce. Vocational rehabilitation and support services can be helpful in exploring career options, acquiring new skills, and advocating for accommodations.

A crush injury can effect you physically and emotionally. Losing a limb can change your daily activities and life as a whole. Prosthetics and physical therapy can help with tasks, and there are programs to help you emotionally, but all of these come with a cost. You deserve to recover compensation, and I’m here to help. Call me today and I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Broken Bones

Broken bones, also known as fractures, occur when the structural integrity of a bone is compromised due to excessive force or trauma from a crush injury. Fractures can happen in any bone in the body and can vary in severity and location.

Effects and Life Changes Associated with Broken Bones:

1. Pain, Swelling, and Bruising: Broken bones typically cause immediate pain at the site of the fracture. Swelling and bruising may also occur due to tissue damage and bleeding around the fracture. These symptoms can make it difficult to move the affected area.

2. Loss of Function: A broken bone can result in a loss of function in the injured area. Depending on the bone and the type of fracture, you may experience difficulty or complete inability to use the affected limb or body part until the bone heals.

3. Restricted Mobility: Fractures often require immobilization through casts, splints, or braces to allow the bones to heal properly. This immobilization can restrict mobility, making it challenging to perform certain activities or participate in regular daily routines.

4. Impaired Range of Motion: In some cases, fractures can lead to a reduced range of motion in the adjacent joints or muscles. Stiffness, muscle weakness, or joint contractures may occur during the healing process. Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help restore mobility and flexibility.

5. Emotional and Psychological Impact: Dealing with a broken bone can have emotional and psychological consequences. Feelings of frustration, helplessness, or a sense of loss due to limitations in daily activities and lifestyle changes may arise. Emotional support, counseling, and maintaining a positive mindset can aid in coping with these challenges.

6. Potential Complications: Some fractures may lead to complications, such as infection, delayed or non-union (failure of the bone to heal), malalignment, or nerve and blood vessel damage. Prompt medical attention, appropriate treatment, and follow-up care are crucial to minimize the risk of complications.

7. Rehabilitation and Recovery: Broken bones can lead to severe injuries depending on location of the fracture. Rehabilitation may be necessary to regain strength, range of motion, and functional abilities. Physical therapy, exercises, and activities tailored to the individual’s needs are essential for recovery and restoring optimal function.

8. Lifestyle Adjustments: During the healing process, individuals may need to make temporary lifestyle adjustments. These may include modifying activities, using assistive devices, adhering to weight-bearing restrictions, or adapting the living environment to ensure safety and promote healing.

Broken bones from a crush injury can be caused by automobile accidents, with a car or semi truck. You need an injury attorney with the experience to get you the help you need. I have a 40 year history of helping my clients get the financial compensation to pay for their medical care and more! Call me today, I’ll Make Them Pay!®

Jobs Most Associated with Crush Injuries

Sometimes crush injuries are the result of workplace accidents. Listed below are the jobs most associated with these tragic disasters.

Construction Worker

Construction workers are often exposed to heavy machinery, falling objects, and unstable structures, making them susceptible to crush injuries. Accidents involving collapsing scaffolding, machinery malfunctions, or being caught between objects pose a significant risk to safety.

Warehouse Worker

Warehouse workers handle and move large, heavy objects, such as pallets, crates, and machinery. The fast-paced environment, combined with inadequate training or unsafe handling practices, increases the risk of crush injuries.

Manufacturing Operator

Manufacturing operators operate heavy machinery and equipment, such as presses, conveyors, or assembly lines. The high-speed and automated nature of the manufacturing process can put operators at risk of crush injuries, particularly if they get caught in moving parts or fail to follow safety protocols.

Mining Worker

Miners work in hazardous environments with heavy machinery, rockfalls, and collapsing structures. Their susceptibility to crush injuries arises from incidents such as cave-ins, equipment failures, or being struck by moving vehicles or falling objects.

Agricultural Worker

Agricultural workers operate and maintain machinery like tractors, harvesters, and balers, which have powerful mechanisms that pose a risk of crush injuries. In addition, working with livestock or large animals can lead to accidents that may result in crush injuries due to their size and strength.

Damages For Crush Injuries

Medical Expenses

This covers the costs associated with medical treatment, including hospital bills, surgeries, doctor visits, medications, rehabilitation, and any other necessary healthcare services related to the crush injury.

Pain and Suffering

This seeks to provide financial compensation for the physical and emotional pain endured as a result of the crush injury. These include chronic pain, discomfort, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and emotional distress.

Lost Wages

Lost wages aim to reimburse the injured party for the income they have lost due to the crush injury, including past and future earnings. This may include wages missed during hospitalization, recovery, rehabilitation, as well as any diminished earning capacity resulting from long-term disability or limitations caused by the injury.

Rehabilitation and Therapy Costs

This covers the expenses associated with physical therapy, occupational therapy, and any other rehabilitation services required for to regain functionality, mobility, and independence following the crush injury.

Disability and Disfigurement

Compensation for disability and disfigurement aims to provide financial support for any long-term physical disabilities, impairments, or disfigurement resulting from the crush injury. These injuries may affect the injured person’s quality of life, self-esteem, and future employment opportunities.

Emotional Distress

This damage accounts for the psychological impact of the crush injury, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder.

Loss of Consortium

Loss of consortium refers to damages awarded to the injured person’s spouse or family members for the loss of companionship, affection, support, and the negative impact the injury has on their relationship due to the crush injury.

Cleveland Personal Injury Lawyer: Tim Misny

Experiencing a crush injury is painful and the path to recovery is long. Crush injuries may change your life and the lives of your family members forever. You may not be able to return to normal activities for a very long time, if at all;  including driving and working. Victims of crush injuries often need long-term medical care, as well as years of physical and occupational therapy.

If your crush injury was the result of someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the financial burden alone. I will fight to get you the compensation you need to make your recovery as smooth as possible under the circumstances.

If you or someone you love sustained a crush injury, call me! As your personal injury lawyer, I’ll be there for you and I’ll Make Them Pay!®