Calculating Damages In Long-Term Injury Cases
Catastrophic injury cases often hinge on how long a plaintiff is expected to live with their condition and what that means financially. At Mishkind Kulwicki Law Co., L.P.A., we help clients pursue fair compensation with our Cleveland, OH catastrophic personal injury lawyer by focusing on both the severity of the injury and the plaintiff’s projected life expectancy. These cases are never just about a number, they’re about what the future realistically looks like. Conditions involving long-term care, such as aging with a spinal cord injury, often require additional scrutiny when calculating damages.
Why Life Expectancy Estimates Matter
Courts rely on life expectancy estimates to determine the duration of care, the amount of lost income, and the projected costs of medical services, therapy, and equipment. For individuals with catastrophic injuries, these calculations affect millions of dollars in potential recovery. Accurate projections are critical to achieving a fair result. An attorney can help determine this.
Standard Vs. Adjusted Life Expectancy
Standard life expectancy tables do not account for the unique health challenges that follow a traumatic injury. Adjustments must be made for medical conditions, increased risks of infection, and the physical demands of long-term rehabilitation. For example, if someone is bedridden they may face cardiovascular problems or muscle issues that require constant care which can be very expensive over time. We work with medical experts and economists to build evidence-based life care plans.
Including Housing And Equipment Costs
A crucial part of these projections includes home modifications after an injury. This can involve widening doorways, installing ramps, adjusting kitchens and bathrooms, and purchasing equipment like ceiling lifts or hospital beds. These costs are not incidental, they’re essential for maintaining independence and safety. Our team ensures they are fully accounted for in every damage calculation. It is better to work to cover it now then try to return later.
Defense Challenges To Life Care Plans
Insurance companies and defense teams often challenge these long-term forecasts. They may argue that the plaintiff won’t need certain services or that costs are inflated. We prepare to counter these claims with detailed documentation, physician reports, and independent cost assessments. Our goal is to make the projected future as legally visible as possible. You can help by taking images and videos of the injuries as well as their progression. Also, it is a good idea to request copies of medical records after each major appointment.
Our Legal And Medical Approach
Our firm has recovered over $300 million in verdicts and settlements and holds a 4.8/5 star Google rating. Our experience in catastrophic injury cases combines medical understanding with strategic legal action. We know what it means to calculate for immediate damages from your accident as well as long-term damages to cover down-the-road medical expenses you may incur from your injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury and needs help establishing accurate damage projections, contact Mishkind Kulwicki Law Co., L.P.A. to explore how we may support your claim.
