What is considered great bodily injury?
When navigating the aftermath of a serious accident, understanding the legal definitions that pertain to your injuries is crucial. “Great bodily injury” is a term often used in personal injury law to describe a certain severity of harm that impacts the victim’s life significantly. This blog, guided by Mark Perron, a highly experienced Minneapolis personal injury lawyer at Perron Law Office, aims to clarify what constitutes great bodily injury, what does not, and how to proceed with a compensation claim if you have suffered such an injury.
Defining Great Bodily Injury
Criteria Under Personal Injury Law
Great bodily injury refers to physical harm that significantly impairs the victim’s health or comfort for an extended period. This is not just any injury; it is one that is substantial and has long-term effects. Examples include:
- Severe fractures
- Significant burns
- Permanent disfigurement
- Loss of limbs
- Serious head injuries
These injuries go beyond minor harm and require significant medical intervention, often including surgery, extended hospital stays, and long-term rehabilitation.
What Does Not Constitute Great Bodily Injury?
Lesser Injuries in Personal Injury Claims
It’s important to understand which injuries do not meet the threshold of great bodily injury to set realistic expectations for your case. Minor injuries such as small cuts, bruises, or mild sprains typically do not qualify as they do not cause long-term impairment or substantial pain. Other examples include:
- Temporary discomfort
- Short-term illnesses
- Injuries requiring only minor medical treatment such as stitches or outpatient procedures
These are generally not considered severe enough to warrant the classification of great bodily injury under legal standards.
Examples of Great Bodily Injuries
Case Studies and Legal Precedents
To better illustrate what may be considered a great bodily injury, consider these examples:
- Case Study 1: A construction worker falls from scaffolding and suffers multiple broken bones and a spinal injury, leading to partial paralysis.
- Case Study 2: A car accident victim sustains a traumatic brain injury that affects their cognitive functions long-term, necessitating ongoing rehabilitation.
These examples clearly show the severity and long-lasting impact that characterizes great bodily injuries.
Claiming Compensation for Great Bodily Injury
How to Proceed with Legal Action
If you’ve suffered a great bodily injury, it’s critical to take the right steps to claim compensation effectively:
- Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all medical treatments, diagnoses, and interactions with healthcare professionals.
- Consult a Professional: Contact a Minneapolis personal injury lawyer like Mark Perron to discuss your case. An experienced lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and representation.
- Understand Your Rights: Learn about the potential compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Prepare for Legal Proceedings: Be ready to provide evidence and possibly testify about the impact of the injury on your life.
Navigating the legal landscape with a professional who understands the nuances of such cases can make a significant difference in the outcome of your claim.
Conclusion: Navigating Your Recovery with Expert Help
Suffering a great bodily injury can be a life-altering experience, and navigating the legal implications is no small task. Understanding the definition and implications of such injuries is crucial for anyone involved in a serious accident. With the help of a skilled Minneapolis personal injury lawyer like Mark Perron, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve to aid in your recovery.
If you’re looking for a Personal Injury Lawyer in Minneapolis, Perron Law Office is the most trusted name in the Twin Cities area. We proudly serve the communities of Lauderdale, Columbia Heights, Falcon Heights, Robbinsdale, Roseville, Crystal, New Brighton, Richfield, Arden Hills, Fridley. Simply reach out on 651-269-6208 to schedule your free consultation.
