Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

What Are Catastrophic Injuries?

A catastrophic injury is characterized by its immediate and long-term impact on a person's ability to lead a normal life. It typically refers to injuries that cause permanent disability, long-term medical problems, or a shorter lifespan. Unlike minor injuries that heal over time, catastrophic injuries can result in permanent damage, forever changing the lives of the injured and their families.

Types of catastrophic injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries are caused by severe trauma to the brain, often due to vehicular accidents, falls, or violence. TBIs can lead to cognitive impairment, memory loss, speech difficulties, difficulty with coordination and balance, and changes in personality or behavior.
• Spinal cord injuries. These are injuries that damage the spinal cord, affecting the communication between the brain and the body. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, they can result in partial or complete paralysis. This can require victims to rely on assistive devices, make alterations to their homes, and participate in ongoing physical therapy.
• Severe burns. These injuries can lead to significant physical pain, scarring, and disfigurement. Additionally, the psychological impact, such as body image issues and trauma, can be substantial.
• Amputations. The loss of a limb significantly affects a person's ability to perform everyday tasks and can lead to long-term physical therapy needs as individuals learn to use prosthetics or other assistive devices.
• Vision and hearing loss. Injuries causing loss of vision or hearing are considered catastrophic due to their long-term impact on one's lifestyle and ability to work.
• Multiple bone fractures. Multiple fractures – often resulting from high-impact accidents – can lead to long-term mobility issues and chronic pain.

It is important to note that the consequences of catastrophic injuries extend beyond physical impairment. The psychological impact can be profound, leading to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Financially, the cost of ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, and home modifications can be staggering. Given these realities, hiring seasoned catastrophic injury attorneys to assist with your personal injury claim is always in your best interest. We are prepared to navigate the complexities of these cases and will do everything possible to help secure fair compensation.

Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries can occur in a variety of situations, many of which are caused by negligence. Each of these causes requires a different approach when pursuing a lawsuit against a negligent party. Our team understands the nuances associated with each type of incident and brings our experience and knowledge to bear when fighting for the compensation you deserve.

Catastrophic injuries are frequently caused by:

• Motor vehicle accidents. High-speed collisions involving cars, trucks, or other automobiles can cause severe harm, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and multiple fractures. Even seemingly minor accidents can result in significant injuries if the circumstances are unfavorable.
• Workplace accidents. Certain occupations, particularly those in construction, oil, manufacturing, or any industry that involves handling heavy machinery or hazardous substances, come with a higher risk of catastrophic injuries. Incidents can range from falls from considerable heights to being caught in or struck by equipment.
• Falls. Falls, particularly from significant heights, can result in catastrophic injuries, including brain or spinal cord damage. However, even a fall from a standing position can be dangerous, especially for older adults.
• Medical malpractice. Mistakes or negligence in medical care can result in severe injuries. This can include surgical errors, misdiagnosis, improper treatment, or medication errors.
• Defective products. Consumer products that are defectively designed, manufactured, or marketed can lead to catastrophic injuries. This can include faulty electrical appliances that cause burns or fires, defective motor vehicles that cause accidents, or improperly labeled products that trigger harmful reactions. In these cases, the product manufacturer, distributor, or retailer may be potentially liable for the resulting harm.
• Acts of violence. Unfortunately, deliberate acts of violence – such as assaults or shootings – can also result in catastrophic injuries, including brain damage, spinal injuries, and significant burns or lacerations. Negligent security can increase the risk of these incidents. 

Why You Should Hire an Attorney to Help with Your Catastrophic Injury Case