Catastrophic Injury FAQs

A Comprehensive Guide to Catastrophic Injuries

A catastrophic injury is an injury that results in severe and long-term physical or psychological disability. If you have sustained a catastrophic injury, you may have many questions about your legal rights and how to file a personal injury claim. This blog post will answer some of the most common questions about catastrophic injuries.

What Qualifies as a Catastrophic Injury?

A catastrophic injury can involve any physical or psychological harm severe enough to cause long-term disability and a diminished quality of life. This can include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, paralysis, amputations, burns, organ damage, and even psychological trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In general, any serious injury that requires extensive medical treatment over an extended period of time could be considered catastrophic.

What Are the Most Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries?

Every day thousands of motor vehicle collisions take place across the country, many of which result in devastating, life-altering catastrophic injuries. The most common types of motor vehicle accidents that cause catastrophic injuries are head-on collisions, rear-end collisions, rollover incidents, and severe side impacts. Head-on collisions occur when a car crashes into another, going in the opposite direction with both cars facing each other. Rear-end collisions happen when a car strikes the back of another already stopped or slowing down vehicle. Rollover incidents occur when a car flips over while at least partially airborne and side impacts can range from broadside to T-bone collisions when one vehicle hits another on its side. No matter the type of motor vehicle accident involved, though, any resultant injury is tragic.

The Long-Lasting Impact On Victims of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries can ravage the lives of victims and their loved ones. Survivors must cope with the lasting emotional, physical, and psychological impacts these injuries bring. Sufferers of catastrophic trauma often experience physical pain that may require drastic medical treatments or surgeries, which might even lead to permanent disabilities. Psychological distress is commonly felt, causing depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as post-traumatic stress disorder. Individuals are likely to feel extreme anger, guilt, and sadness for considerable amounts of time, which can only be reduced with proper coping strategies from mental health professionals.

How Do I File a Personal Injury Claim for a Catastrophic Injury?

Suppose you have been injured in an accident due to someone else’s negligence or misconduct. In that case, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against them for damages related to your medical bills and lost wages. You will need to collect evidence such as photographs, witness statements, police reports, and medical records demonstrating that the other party was responsible for causing the accident and your subsequent injuries. It would be best if you also spoke with personal injury attorney who can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim against the responsible party.

When You Need Legal Help After Sustaining a Catastrophic Injury

Getting the help of a qualified lawyer after sustaining a catastrophic injury in a motor vehicle crash is highly recommended. The costs associated with medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repairs can add up quickly.

With the help of an experienced lawyer, you can ensure that all of your rights are protected and your interests are represented in court. An experienced lawyer will also be able to analyze any potential for additional damages resulting from the crash. To get the best possible outcome for your case, it is strongly encouraged to find a lawyer who specializes in handling similar cases and has ample experience navigating the complex legal procedures associated with catastrophic injuries. If you or someone you know has been involved in a motor vehicle crash, do not hesitate to reach out to our San Jose personal injury lawyers for help today. At Caputo and Van Der Walde – Injury & Accident Attorneys, we’ll ensure your rights are protected.