What is a Catastrophic Injury?

Categories: Catastrophic Injury

Dictionary Entry for Destructive

Washington Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Catastrophic injuries are those that are life-changing and will affect a victim for the rest of his or her life. These injuries occur without warning and can impact anyone – from a child to an adult, doctor, or mothers and fathers. The long-term implications of such injuries may not be apparent right away. Most victims of catastrophic injuries, and their families, often have to pursue legal action to cover the long-term costs associated with their injury. Victims who are unable to return to work, which is typically the case with catastrophic injuries, will often seek compensation for future income and lost wage damages, as well as medical costs.

Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries are those that are serious and cause long-term or permanent injuries. They can damage the nervous system, require amputation, and affect the victim’s brain function. Just some examples of catastrophic injuries include:

These injuries are highly complex and have lifelong complications. Victims will need long-term medical care, and their life expectancy and quality of life could be impacted, as well. The physical and emotional pain of these injuries is extensive, but so are the financial consequences. Medical costs can quickly add up and overwhelm the victim, as well as his or her family.

Catastrophic injuries can be caused in a variety of ways, from medical errors to vehicle accidents to construction accidents. Sometimes they are also caused by sport injuries, violence, and recreational accidents.

Medical Care and Prognosis

The treatment of catastrophic injuries is extensive. Most victims will need more than initial emergency care, and will encounter multiple doctor visits, follow-up surgeries, and possibly even physical and mental therapy. During the litigation process, an attorney will work closely with the victim’s doctors, life care planners, and other experts to help understand the extent of the injury and what treatments will be needed in the future. This consultation will help the attorney better estimate the future medical costs to ensure that the victim is compensated fairly.

Filing a Lawsuit

Catastrophic injury compensation is not the same as general injury compensation. Instead, it is a challenge for injury attorneys to prove the extent of the injury. The personal injury attorney will need to get the victim, and his or her family, financial assistance for medical treatments, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future loss of income.

Speak with a Washington Catastrophic Injury Attorney Today

If you or a loved one has suffered from a catastrophic injury, you need an injury lawyer in Washington who specializes in these types of cases. Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, PLLC can assist you and your loved ones with your claim. We will work to assess the fair compensation amount, and fight as your advocates to ensure that you receive compensation for your costs and suffering. Schedule a consultation today at 800-925-1875 or fill out our online contact form with your injury questions.

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Matt Conner

Matt Conner, a distinguished attorney at Brett McCandlis Brown & Conner, brings a unique blend of financial and legal expertise to his practice. Graduating with a double major in mathematics and economics from Willamette University, he initially honed his analytical skills as an economist for the State of Oregon. Specializing in personal injury law, Matt is adept at handling a wide array of cases, including multiparty litigation against large entities, and claims involving gun violence, sexual and police misconduct, car accidents, traumatic brain injuries, and wrongful death. Admitted to the Washington State Bar in 2014, he is known for his tenacious advocacy and deep compassion for clients facing life-altering challenges. His approach is not just about legal representation; it’s about restoring lives.