1What is a catastrophic injury?
A severe injury that causes long-term or permanent disability, such as paralysis, amputations, severe burns, or brain injuries.
2What are the common causes of catastrophic injuries?
Car accidents, truck accidents, workplace accidents, defective products, medical malpractice, and violent acts.
3How are catastrophic injuries different from other personal injuries?
They have life-altering effects, often requiring long-term medical care, rehabilitation, and permanent lifestyle changes.
4What types of damages can I recover?
Medical costs, future care expenses, lost wages, lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, and home modifications.
5Can I claim compensation for lifelong medical needs?
Yes. Future medical care is a key part of catastrophic injury claims.
6Who can be held liable for a catastrophic injury?
Individuals, companies, government agencies, or any party whose negligence or wrongdoing caused the injury.
7How do I prove my injury is catastrophic?
Through medical records, expert testimony, and documentation of the injuryās long-term impact on your life.
8What if multiple parties caused my injury?
You may pursue claims against all responsible parties under Californiaās comparative fault law.
9How long do I have to file a catastrophic injury claim in California?
Generally, two years from the date of the injury, with shorter deadlines for claims involving government entities.
10Can catastrophic injuries result in wrongful death claims?
Yes, if the injuries ultimately lead to the victimās death.
11What if my injury happened at work?
You may have both a workersā compensation claim and a third-party personal injury claim.
12Can I get compensation for emotional and psychological effects?
Yes. Mental health impacts like depression, PTSD, and anxiety are compensable.
13How do attorneys calculate the value of a catastrophic injury case?
By considering current and future medical needs, loss of income, reduced life expectancy, and quality-of-life impacts.
14Will my case go to trial?
Many settle, but catastrophic injury cases may go to trial if a fair settlement isnāt reached.
15Can I receive punitive damages?
Yes, if the injury resulted from egregious negligence or intentional misconduct.
16How can an attorney help in a catastrophic injury case?
By investigating, working with medical and economic experts, and fighting for maximum compensation.
17Are catastrophic injury cases more complex than other injury cases?
Yes, due to higher damages, long-term impacts, and the need for specialized expert testimony.
18How long does it take to resolve a catastrophic injury case?
Often one to several years, depending on medical recovery and legal complexity.
19Will health insurance cover all costs?
Not usually. Long-term care and rehabilitation often exceed standard coverage, making legal recovery essential.
20How much does it cost to hire Hillstone Law for a catastrophic injury case?
We work on contingency, you pay nothing unless we win.
