These are known as catastrophic injuries—injuries that are so severe that they often result in long-term or permanent consequences. For those affected by such life-changing events, the road to recovery can be incredibly challenging, both physically and emotionally.
If you or a loved one has suffered from a catastrophic injury, it is essential to understand your legal rights. Seeking help from an experienced San Antonio catastrophic injury lawyer at Patterson Law Group can make a difference in helping you secure compensation and rebuild your life.
Our team is committed to helping victims get justice by pursuing catastrophic injury cases and protecting their rights.
What is a Catastrophic Injury?
Its severity and long-term impact define a catastrophic injury. Unlike minor injuries that may heal over time, catastrophic injuries permanently affect a person’s ability to function. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation and may lead to permanent disabilities.
The physical consequences of catastrophic injuries are significant, but the emotional and psychological impacts are often just as overwhelming. Many victims find themselves unable to enjoy the daily activities they once participated in, and some are forced to give up their careers due to their limitations. The far-reaching effects of these injuries can create lasting challenges.
When faced with a catastrophic injury, legal assistance is crucial. A San Antonio catastrophic injury lawyer can help you understand your rights, gather the necessary evidence, and help you throughout the legal process.
Common Types of Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries can take many forms, each with its own unique challenges. Some of the most common types include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can have lasting effects on cognitive abilities, behavior, and overall mental health. Victims may suffer from memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and personality changes, making daily life and work extremely challenging.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Over 17,800 people suffer spinal cord injuries in the US each year. Spinal cord injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis, severely limiting a person’s mobility and independence. Even less severe spinal injuries can cause chronic pain and require ongoing physical therapy and medical care.
- Blunt Trauma to the Abdomen: These injuries may not be immediately visible, but they can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Blunt trauma can result in internal bleeding, organ damage, and long-term health complications.
- Burn Injuries: Burns can cause severe pain, disfigurement, and emotional trauma. Depending on the severity, recovery can take months or even years, with victims often requiring multiple surgeries and rehabilitation.
- Amputations: Losing a limb is a devastating experience that permanently alters a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks. Amputation victims may require prosthetics, ongoing therapy, and adjustments to their living environments.
- Disfigurement and Scarring: Physical scars and disfigurement can be emotionally challenging, impacting a person’s self-esteem and confidence. In addition to the physical pain, victims may also struggle with the psychological effects of their injuries.
The Psychological Impact of Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries not only affect a person physically but also take a toll on their mental health. Many victims face emotional challenges such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after their accidents. These psychological effects can be long-lasting and may require professional treatment.
Statistics show that individuals who suffer from catastrophic injuries are at a higher risk for developing mental health issues. For example, studies indicate that a significant percentage of car accident victims experience depression and PTSD long after their physical injuries have healed. It’s important to address these psychological challenges alongside physical recovery.
Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries in San Antonio
Catastrophic injuries can occur in various accidents, many of which are caused by negligence. Some of the most common causes include:
- Motor vehicle accidents: Car crashes are one of the leading causes of catastrophic injuries, especially when they involve high speeds or collisions with large vehicles like trucks.
- Truck accidents: Due to commercial trucks’ sheer size and weight, accidents involving these vehicles often result in severe injuries for those in smaller cars.
- Pedestrian-related accidents: Pedestrians are vulnerable to catastrophic injuries when struck by vehicles, often suffering from broken bones, head trauma, or spinal cord injuries.
- Slip and fall accidents: Falls can cause serious injuries, particularly in older individuals, resulting in broken bones, head injuries, and other severe conditions.
- Fires/Explosions: Burns and other severe injuries often result from fires, explosions, and other dangerous conditions.
- Construction site and workplace accidents: Dangerous conditions in the workplace can result in catastrophic injuries, especially on construction sites where heavy machinery is used.
When someone else’s negligence causes an accident, you have the right to pursue compensation. A San Antonio catastrophic injury lawyer can help you hold the responsible party accountable and seek the justice you deserve.
How Do I Know If I Have a Catastrophic Personal Injury Claim?
Catastrophic injury claims differ significantly from standard personal injury claims due to the severity of the injuries involved. Some key differences include:
- Severity of injuries: Catastrophic injuries often require long-term or lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.
- Recovery time: Victims may face years of recovery, and some may never fully regain their pre-accident health or abilities.
- Need for legal representation: Because of the complex nature of these cases and their unique challenges, working with an experienced San Antonio catastrophic injury lawyer is essential to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.
Is There a Time Limit to File a Personal Injury Case in San Antonio?
In Texas, personal injury claims are subject to a statute of limitations, meaning you have a limited time to file a claim after an accident. In most cases, you must file a personal injury claim two years from the accident date. Failing to file within this timeframe could prevent you from pursuing compensation.
Acting quickly after an accident is essential to ensure your case is filed within the legal timeframe. A San Antonio catastrophic injury lawyer can guide you through the process and ensure your claim is submitted on time.
Will My Personal Injury Claim Go to Court?
Many personal injury claims are settled before they ever reach the courtroom. However, in some cases, going to court may be necessary to achieve a fair resolution. Having an experienced San Antonio catastrophic injury lawyer by your side can make all the difference in either scenario.
Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies and other parties, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court and advocate on your behalf.
How an Attorney Can Help with a Catastrophic Injury Claim
The legal process for catastrophic injury claims can be complex, but an experienced attorney can help by:
- Investigating the accident: Gathering evidence, including photos, witness statements, and medical records.
- Identifying liable parties: Determining who is responsible for the accident and your injuries.
- Consulting with experts: Working with medical professionals, accident reconstruction experts, and other specialists to build a strong case.
- Negotiating with insurance companies: Fighting for fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
Compensation You Can Receive for a Catastrophic Injury Claim
If you’ve been injured in a catastrophic accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care.
- Lost Wages and Earning Capacity: Compensation for time missed from work and reduced earning potential due to your injuries.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for physical pain, emotional trauma, and mental anguish.
- Loss of Quality of Life: Compensation for the lasting impact your injuries have on your ability to enjoy life.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the responsible party for particularly reckless behavior.
Sustaining a Catastrophic Injury in the San Antonio Workplace
Workplace accidents are a common cause of catastrophic injuries. In Texas, workers are generally entitled to workers’ compensation benefits, which cover medical expenses and lost wages.
However, if your employer was negligent or third-party liabilities involved, you may be able to pursue additional compensation through a personal injury claim.
When a Catastrophic Injury Leads to a Wrongful Death
In the most tragic cases, catastrophic injuries can result in wrongful death. Family members of the deceased may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and other damages.
Speaking with a Skilled San Antonio Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
At Patterson Law Group, we understand the profound impact catastrophic injuries have on individuals and their families. Our San Antonio catastrophic injury lawyers are committed to providing compassionate and dedicated legal representation to help you through this difficult time.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
