Burlington Catastrophic Injury Attorney

What Constitutes a Catastrophic Injury?

A catastrophic injury is a severe injury that has significant and long-lasting effects on a person’s life. These injuries typically result in permanent disability, a reduced quality of life, or a need for ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. 

The impact of a catastrophic injury is not only physical but also emotional and financial. Victims may experience chronic pain, loss of independence, and an inability to work or participate in everyday activities. The costs associated with treating and managing such injuries can be substantial, often requiring long-term care, specialized equipment, and modifications to living environments.

In legal terms, catastrophic injuries often lead to significant claims for damages, including compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related costs. These cases are typically more complex due to the severity of the injuries and the need for expert testimony to establish the full extent of the harm and the future needs of the injured party.

Common Catastrophic Injuries

Many different types of injuries can be considered “catastrophic” in nature. These injuries often result in permanent disabilities and may require lifelong medical treatment and care. In some cases, the victim may be unable to return to work, resulting in a significant loss of income. If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, our team can help you fight for the maximum compensation you are owed.

Some of the most common types of catastrophic injuries include:

• Brain injuries: Catastrophic brain injuries can result in permanent brain damage, which can lead to a wide range of complications. Victims may suffer from cognitive impairments, memory problems, changes in personality, and more. In some cases, brain injuries can result in a coma or a vegetative state.
• Spinal cord injuries: Catastrophic spinal cord injuries often result in permanent paralysis. Victims may suffer from paraplegia, quadriplegia, or another form of paralysis. These injuries are not only physically devastating, but they can also result in significant emotional and psychological trauma.
• Burn injuries: Severe burn injuries can result in permanent disfigurement and scarring. In some cases, the victim may need to undergo multiple reconstructive surgeries. Burn injuries can also lead to a loss of sensation in the affected area of the body.
• Amputations: The loss of a limb can be a catastrophic injury that can permanently impact an individual’s quality of life. Amputees may need to learn how to walk again or use a wheelchair. They may also need to learn how to perform everyday tasks differently.
• Loss of vision or hearing: Catastrophic injuries that result in the loss of vision or hearing can impact a person’s life in a number of ways. They may be unable to perform their job duties, and they may need to learn how to live with these new challenges.
• Organ damage: Catastrophic injuries that result in organ damage can be life-threatening. Organ damage can also result in the need for an organ transplant.
• Paralysis: Paralysis can be a catastrophic injury that results in significant physical limitations. Victims may be unable to walk, move their arms, or perform other everyday tasks.

What Damages Could Be Recovered in a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

Compensation may cover a wide range of losses, including:

Medical Expenses

Catastrophic injuries often require ongoing medical treatment, which includes surgeries, hospital stays, rehabilitation, and assistive devices. Compensation can cover both present and forthcoming medical costs, including:

• Hospitalization costs
• Surgeries and other medical procedures
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Home health care services
• Medications and medical equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, prosthetics)
• Costs of modifying a home to accommodate disabilities

Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity

If a catastrophic injury prevents you from working temporarily or permanently, you could be entitled to compensation for lost wages. If the injury impairs your ability to work in the future, you can also seek damages for loss of earning capacity. This includes the following:

• Compensation for time missed from work during recovery
• Future income loss if the injury impacts your ability to work at the same capacity or at all
• Retirement benefits or other employment-related losses

Pain and Suffering

Beyond the financial losses, catastrophic injuries often cause significant physical pain and emotional distress. Damages for pain and suffering strive to compensate victims for:

• Physical distress and discomfort caused by the injury
• Emotional trauma and psychological distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life because of limitations on daily activities or hobbies

Permanent Disability or Disfigurement

Catastrophic injuries may result in permanent disability or visible disfigurement. Compensation may be awarded to address the impact on your quality of life, independence, and future well-being. This may include:

• Loss of the capacity to perform daily tasks or participate in activities you once enjoyed
• Compensation for the psychological impact of disfigurement or disability
• Costs for long-term care or living assistance if needed

Loss of Consortium

If a catastrophic injury affects your relationship with your spouse or family members, you may be entitled to damages for loss of consortium. This includes compensation for the emotional and physical impact on relationships, such as loss of companionship or intimacy.

Punitive Damages

In instances where the injury was caused by extreme negligence or intentional wrongdoing, punitive damages may be granted. These damages are intended to penalize the wrongdoer and prevent similar behavior in the future.

How Lanier Law Group, P.A. Can Help

After a catastrophic injury, you may be wondering how you will ever be able to move forward. You may be left with significant medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses. You may also be unable to return to work. At Lanier Law Group, P.A., we can help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Our catastrophic injury attorneys in Burlington can help you with all aspects of your claim, including:

• Evidence collection: In order to build a strong case, we will need to collect evidence to support your claim. This may involve gathering medical records, accident reports, and other documentation.
• Accident reconstruction: In some cases, we may need to work with an accident reconstruction expert to determine the cause of your accident and how it resulted in your injuries.
• Calculating damages: We will work with you to determine the full extent of your injuries and losses. This may include not only your current expenses but also your future financial needs.
• Negotiating with the insurance company: We will handle all communications with the insurance company on your behalf. Our team will fight for a fair settlement that covers all of your losses.
• Taking your case to court: If the insurance company is not willing to offer a fair settlement, we are prepared to take your case to court. Our team can put our extensive experience to work for you in the courtroom.

Our Burlington catastrophic injury attorneys are not afraid to take on large corporations and insurance companies. We have a long track record of success and are prepared to put our experience to work for you.