What is a considered to be a "serious injury" warranting substantial compensation?
It is difficult to define the boundaries of "serious injury", but it is generally recognized that certain injuries have a major impact upon the life of the victim that warrant substantial compensation when caused by misconduct.
Some examples of injuries that would generally be included would be the following:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries
- Amputations
- Disfigurement (significant scarring or burns)
- Injuries requiring surgery
- Blindness
- Injuries that damage any of the major organs of the body
Another factor in considering the seriousness of an injury is the related impact upon the earnings and lifestyle of the victim. Any injury that causes a substantial loss of earnings or capacity to earn would certainly be termed "serious". Likewise, any injury that requires a victim to make major accommodations in his or her lifestyle would be included.
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