Every day, people in Florida suffer injuries caused by accidents. Most people understand that a serious injury can result in lost wages, pain and suffering for the injured person. However, family members of an accident victim can be subjected to another kind of suffering: the loss of consortium.
Loss of consortium between spouses
Catastrophic injuries do more than physical harm. For a married couple, physical injuries can take away the ability for a partner to have a sexual relationship, provide financial support or perform daily household tasks. Brain damage may take away a spouse’s ability to communicate or offer emotional support.
Loss of consortium after a parent’s injury
Children also suffer in the wake of a parent’s injuries. The adult may no longer be able to offer advice and guidance. There are also practical implications when a parent cannot give financial support or carry out simple parental tasks such as giving rides to events. Part of the job of a personal injury attorney is making certain that the court considers the broad impact of an injury.
Loss of consortium after a child’s injury
Loss of consortium can be a consideration after an accident involving a minor as traumatic injuries can disrupt the relationship between the parent and child. Brain injuries that affect the developmental maturity of a child can be especially troubling. A child who is no longer able to reciprocate affection is an extreme loss for a family.
The loss of consortium can be an invisible source of suffering after a serious injury. If your family relationship suffers because of an accident, an experienced lawyer may help you understand your legal options.