While some incidents lead to little more than bumps and bruises, others can result in injuries that alter your life forever. These serious conditions are known as catastrophic injuries, and when they occur as the result of negligence, a dedicated attorney may be able to help.
You have the right to seek compensation if you are severely injured through no fault of your own. Whether you suffered a motor vehicle accident, a surgical error, or a fall, a Calabasas catastrophic injury lawyer could help you seek justice.
There is no strict definition of a catastrophic injury under state law, but the term generally describes wounds that have permanent health consequences. A Calabasas attorney could help in cases of traumatic brain injury, severe burns, and spinal cord injury, among others, which result in an individual requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Damage to the brain is a serious injury that can lead to permanent impairment. The most common brain injury is a concussion, which occurs when a blow to the head jolts the brain hard enough to cause damage. Other common examples include brain bruising and diffuse axonal injuries.
Traumatic brain injuries often come with a variety of symptoms. Some, such as chronic pain and sleep disturbances, are easy to recognize, while others, such as unexplained personality changes, may be more challenging to identify. Additionally, it can take months or longer for some symptoms to become apparent.
Severe burns can happen in a number of ways, from motor vehicle accidents to workplace fires. While some burns are minor and heal in a few days, others can lead to permanent scarring and nerve damage. One of the biggest risks that comes with a severe burn is the increased chance of an infection, which could be fatal.
A substantial impact to the head, neck, or back can lead to spinal injuries. Damage to the spinal cord can have dramatic consequences for a person’s health. The primary risk of these injuries is paralysis, which can occur when a trauma severs the spinal cord. Paralysis from the neck down—known as quadriplegia—requires extensive lifetime care and support. Most people with this condition require help to meet their basic needs and may be unable to work. A civil suit could provide the resources necessary to live with this severe degree of paralysis.
Time limits apply to personal injury suits, even when the condition is catastrophic. This deadline—typically referred to as the statute of limitations—is strictly enforced by the courts. Anyone who waits too long to pursue legal action could miss out on their opportunity for compensation.
In general, the person injured has two years to bring their personal injury case. If they wait until the deadline expires, the courts will likely dismiss the lawsuit with prejudice, meaning the case ends, and there is no opportunity to file it again in the future.
There are some factors that alter the time an individual has to file suit. For example, plaintiffs typically have less time when suing the government, while some people, including juveniles, may have more time to pursue legal action. A Calabasas lawyer with experience representing people who have suffered a life-altering trauma could answer any questions about deadlines.
If you are facing a new reality following a traumatic accident, you are entitled to seek compensation. The prospect of holding the at-fault party accountable may seem impossible while recovering from such a serious injury, but having an attorney to support you could help. Contact a Calabasas catastrophic injury lawyer today to learn more.
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