A protracted loss typically refers to serious bodily harm that results either in a diminished quality of life for the victim or their death. For example, motorcyclists are at an increased risk of protracted losses after colliding with another vehicle. In this example, the protracted loss meaning refers to the severity of injuries and damages one may experience after an accident.
Florida Statute § 316.1933 defines serious bodily injuries as any type of physical harm that puts a victim at risk of death.
Specifically, the statute references:
- Serious personal disfigurement
- The loss of a bodily member
- Severe organ damage
The finances surrounding a protracted loss can be costly since they often require intensive medical treatment. Either settling with an insurance company or filing a lawsuit are just two of the ways one can recover these types of losses.
Terms of Protracted Loss
When it comes to defining protracted loss there may be different ways to interpret its exact meaning. In terms of the laws regarding protracted loss, a person must lose the function of certain body parts for an extended period of time.
For example, if your arm is broken in a car crash and you are unable to use it for several weeks or more, this may be considered a protracted loss. Of course, this type of loss is not as serious as the complete loss of a limb, but in most cases, it is still considered a serious bodily injury and will be treated as such in the eyes of the law.
The extent of your injuries and its consequences will be factored into the amount of financial recovery you may be able to seek for your damages.
Examples of Protracted Loss
As mentioned, a protracted loss means an injury that results in the need for long-term medical services. Conditions that do not need serious medical attention will not fall under this category.
Additional examples of serious bodily harm that may result in protracted losses can include:
- Facial lacerations that lead to scarring or other permanent disfigurements
- Severe burns that take a long time to heal, or leave permanent marks on the skin
- Traumatic brain injury
- Gunshot wounds
- Compound fractures
- Anoxic brain injury
- Dismemberment
- Trauma that causes punctures or lacerations to internal organs
Anything associated with these conditions will likely be seen as a serious bodily injury.
Getting the Legal Help You Need
In any kind of accident, whether it be a collision, slip and fall, or product liability, your first priority should be to seek medical attention. Once you are on the mend, you may want to consider litigation against the party who caused your protracted losses. These types of cases can be complicated, which is why you may want to seek legal assistance. The Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine can discuss your case with you during a free phone consultation. Call us today at 1-800-747-3733.
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