What Makes an Injury "Catastrophic"?

According to U.S. Code 42 U.S.C. § 3796b, the definition of catastrophic injury is an injury in which the direct and proximate consequences permanently prevent the person from performing any gainful work. To simplify this definition, catastrophic injury cases involve devastating injuries that inflict serious, permanent damage that can last a lifetime. For example, a catastrophic injury can result when the brain and/or spinal cord sustains physical harm or if a person sustains third-degree burns, all of which can substantially impair an individual's ability to function.

Types of Catastrophic Injuries

When we take on a catastrophic injury case for a client, it generally falls into one of these three categories:

  • Physical Injuries: Severe fractures, major organ damage, amputated limbs, serious burns, and injuries that damage orthopedic function or tissue.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Significant damage to the spinal cord can result in permanent mobility issues in various areas of the body.
  • Cognitive Injuries: Brain damage that results in a person’s inability to work, communicate, or form new memories qualify as cognitive injuries.

The Impact of Catastrophic Injuries

At Lessem, Newstat & Tooson, LLP, our legal team has seen firsthand the devastating effects that catastrophic injuries can have on the everyday aspects of the injured party’s life. From difficulty completing day-to-day activities to costly bills for necessary medical procedures and medications, every catastrophic injury case impacts the individual and their family in various ways. From seeking help to address cognitive limitations to paying for around-the-clock care, obtaining compensation for a catastrophic injury is crucial for the future of the injured party and their loved ones.

Consult with Our Team of Experienced Catastrophic Injury Lawyers

We believe that our catastrophic injury clients shouldn’t have a limited future just because of the devastating injury they sustained. Have you or a loved one suffered a catastrophic injury that was the result of another party’s negligence? Have you lost your job because you can no longer work due to your injury limitations? Have the events of your accident caused you to suffer PTSD or other types of emotional trauma? If so, please get in touch with us today so we can discuss all of your options under the law.

To get answers to your questions about filing a catastrophic injury claim, please give us a call at (800) 462-7160 ​to request a case evaluation. We are available to serve you 24 hours, 7 days a week.

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