A catastrophic injury is more than a severe injury. It is the type of injury that has a significant and long-term impact on a person’s well-being, ability to make a living, and ongoing medical condition. The injury does not have to be permanent, but short-term injuries generally will not qualify.
Catastrophic injuries are life-changing, not only for the injured person but also for their loved ones. They can change someone’s ability to care for and support themselves. These injuries can also impact more than physical ability—in some instances, they alter cognitive ability and emotions. While financial compensation cannot take away a catastrophic injury, it can ensure you have the resources you need to replace lost wages, pay for medical care and therapy, and other things you may need. A Fresno catastrophic injury lawyer can help you explore your options. Call the Valero Law Group today to begin working with a trusted personal injury attorney.
Types of Catastrophic Injuries
The state does not narrowly define potential catastrophic injuries. Any life-altering injury or any injury that results in death can be considered catastrophic. Catastrophic injuries often involve damage to the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord. Other injuries that can lead to physical disabilities, such as amputations, can also be catastrophic.
Other examples of injuries that could be catastrophic include:
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Eye injuries
- Paralysis
- Head and neck injuries
- Internal organ damage
Additionally, while a single broken bone would not usually be a catastrophic injury, multiple broken bones could qualify. A Fresno lawyer can examine how the injury impacts a person’s life to determine whether it supports a catastrophic injury claim.
Causes of Catastrophic Injuries
Any accident can lead to catastrophic injuries. However, the more severe an accident, the more likely it is to lead to catastrophic harm.
Motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of catastrophic injuries. Car and truck wrecks, motorcycle accidents, bicycle accidents, and pedestrian accidents can all result in life-altering injuries. Other common causes include:
- Slip and falls
- Sports injuries
- Swimming pool accidents and other premises liability issues
- Defective products
- Nursing home abuse and neglect
- Dog bites
- Negligent supervision
If someone’s negligence contributes to the injury, a person may be able to recover compensation for their losses. A catastrophic injury attorney in Fresno will examine the facts to determine whether someone breached their duty of care and gather the necessary evidence to prove their liability.
Consult a Fresno Catastrophic Injury Attorney
The very definition of a catastrophic injury means that it is life-altering. That means that it will also be expensive, painful, and traumatic. The injury will not just impact your life, but also the lives of your loved ones. They may have to play a caregiver role or come up with the financial resources to hire caregivers. Additionally, they may have to make up for lost income.
Fortunately, a Fresno catastrophic injury lawyer may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve. Schedule a consultation with Valero Law Group to learn more. We will review the facts of your case and provide our advice about your potential remedies. If you choose for us to represent you, we fight to get you the compensation you deserve, and we do not get paid unless you do.
