What constitutes serious physical injury?

Serious physical injury is defined by the severity and long-term impact it has on an individual. Protracted loss of function or disfigurement fits this definition because it indicates an injury that not only requires significant medical attention but also results in lasting effects that disrupt a person's daily life or appearance. This type of injury can lead to long-term rehabilitation or could permanently affect a person's quality of life.

Injuries such as minor concussions and bruises do not typically meet the threshold for serious physical injury, as they are usually temporary and resolve with minimal medical intervention. Permanent loss of sight is indeed a serious condition, but it's just one aspect of a broader classification. While injuries that require a doctor's visit are noteworthy, they can range from minor to severe, so not all of them would qualify as serious physical injuries. Thus, the option highlighting protracted loss of function or disfigurement accurately captures injuries that have significant, lasting consequences.