What Constitutes A Catastrophic Injury?

Personal injuries can sometimes be minor and heal with the right treatment. However, some injuries can completely change your life, resulting in a catastrophic injury, which can affect your future and the future of your loved ones.

A catastrophic injury is a severe injury that can cause lasting or long-term physical, psychological, or financial harm. If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, it’s crucial to understand the implications of the injury and the possible consequences that follow.

Our Seattle catastrophic injury lawyers at Emerald Law Group can help you fight for the compensation you need to cover your medical expenses, emotional distress, pain and suffering, and other losses associated with your injury.

What Is a Catastrophic Injury?

A catastrophic injury affects a person’s life on multiple levels, from the quality of life to financial stability. A catastrophic injury can range from traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, amputations, paralysis to severe burns, and disfigurement.

The victim of a catastrophic injury may require ongoing medical care or assistance, which can make it difficult for them to perform day-to-day activities. Often, catastrophic injuries result in permanent disability and chronic pain, which can impact the victim’s ability to work or enjoy usual activities, leading to stress, depression, and anxiety.

Examples of Catastrophic Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries can have long-lasting effects on an individual’s cognitive, physical, and emotional abilities. Spinal cord injuries can cause paralysis, and the loss of sensation and mobility can impact every aspect of an individual’s life. Amputations of limbs can result in significant lifestyle changes and require ongoing physical therapy and adaptive technologies. Severe burns and disfigurement can lead to societal stigmatization, emotional trauma, and financial burden.

The Difference Between a Catastrophic Injury and a Regular Personal Injury

A catastrophic injury is different from a regular personal injury, as the effects are long-lasting and have a significant impact on the victim’s life. A regular personal injury may heal with time or medical treatment, while a catastrophic injury typically requires ongoing medical care or support.

The damages awarded in a personal injury lawsuit may not be enough to cover the costs associated with a catastrophic injury. Often, catastrophic injury victims require compensation that covers medical bills, future medical expenses, loss of income, loss of earning capacity, and pain and suffering, among other damages.

Despite the fact that a catastrophic injury and a regular personal injury are very different, the law gives injured victims the same amount of time to sue for damages. In Washington, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases, including catastrophic injuries, is three years from the injury-causing event (RCW § 4.16.080).

Why You Need a Lawyer

A catastrophic injury can have long-lasting, devastating effects on the victim and their family. It’s crucial to seek legal advice from a personal injury lawyer experienced in catastrophic injury cases to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve to cover medical expenses and future economic needs.

Your lawyer will handle all aspects of your claim while you can focus on your treatment. They will gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and help you prepare your case for trial to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

Contact Emerald Law Group to Get Help

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, do not hesitate to seek the help of a legal professional at Emerald Law Group. We can provide you with the support you need in navigating the legal and medical systems to ensure you receive the care and compensation you need to move forward. Call 206-826-5160 to set up a free case review.

Source:

apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=4.16.080