Catastrophic Injury
Definition
A severe industrial injury resulting in permanent total disability or near-total disability, such as spinal cord injury with paralysis, severe traumatic brain injury, major burns, or bilateral amputations. Catastrophic injuries typically result in lifetime medical treatment obligations and maximum permanent disability benefits.
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Catastrophic Injury?
A severe industrial injury resulting in permanent total disability or near-total disability, such as spinal cord injury with paralysis, severe traumatic brain injury, major burns, or bilateral amputations. Catastrophic injuries typically result in lifetime medical treatment obligations and maximum permanent disability benefits.
Why is catastrophic injury important in workers' compensation?
Catastrophic Injury is a key medical concept in workers' compensation evaluations. Understanding this term helps physicians document findings accurately and helps attorneys and adjusters evaluate the medical aspects of a claim.