What To Do If You Suffer A Catastrophic Injury From A Car Accident

If you have been in an accident and are now suffering from a catastrophic injury such as an amputation or other life-altering injury, you will probably face some big personal changes. Catastrophic injuries are called that for a reason. They are damaging, debilitating, and life-changing, and they can even lead to death. They leave you needing a lifetime of rehabilitation and being permanently disabled.

What Is A Catastrophic Injury?
While there is no definitive list of catastrophic injuries, if your injury prevents you from returning to work and earning a living or has a significant permanent consequence in your life, it qualifies as a catastrophic injury. The possible consequences include:

● A permanent physical or psychological disability
● A reduction of your quality of life
● The need for extensive medical treatment

In other words, if your injury hinders you from taking care of and supporting yourself and your loved ones, it is catastrophic.

Common Types Of Catastrophic Injuries

Many injuries can be classified as catastrophic, and the following are a few examples:

● Spinal cord injuries
● Traumatic brain injuries
● Amputations
● Serious burns
● Permanent organ damage
● Injuries due to exposure to dangerous chemicals

Why Does A Catastrophic Injury Make My Florida Claim Different?

Medically, we understand that catastrophic injuries are different because of their permanent nature. They also differ legally since the severity of those injuries and the length of treatment required for them mean that your medical expenses as well as your pain and suffering are going to be greater.

A Florida personal injury case that involves a catastrophic injury will require much greater compensation to cover all damages and expenses. This will likely cause major issues with the person at fault’s insurance company. And since Florida is a no-fault state, your insurance company may not want to pay for the ongoing medical care as well. This is why it is imperative you get a qualified Florida personal injury attorney as soon as possible.

Florida Catastrophic Injury Laws

Since Florida is a no-fault state, its courts follow the pure comparative negligence system. This means that the damages are based on the percentage of the responsibility or fault of each party. For example, if it is determined that you were 20% at fault and you are awarded $100,000, you will only receive $80,000.

Since multiple parties can be to blame, multiple insurance companies may be involved. Refer all of your insurance calls to your attorney because if you speak to the other companies, they will try and twist your statements to assign fault to you. That is their job. Since the outcome of an accident can rest heavily on your account of what happened to you, you need someone on your side to guide you. Some damages your Florida personal injury attorney can help you recover include:

● Current and future medical treatment
● Current and future therapy
● Lost wages and work
● Loss of future earnings
● Cost of household services
● Pain and suffering
● Loss of enjoyment of life
● Permanent impairment and disfigurement

In some circumstances, your family members may also be entitled to compensation or loss of consortium or companionship. Navigating the ins and outs of getting the compensation you deserve for permanent injuries you have sustained takes a qualified, experienced personal injury attorney at your side.

For over 30 years, the attorneys at All Injuries Law Firm, P.A. have practiced personal injury law in Port Charlotte, Sarasota, and Southwest Florida. Most of our referrals have come from satisfied clients and professionals who are aware of our expertise. We will get you the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 1-941-625-HURT for a complimentary consultation.

News & Articles

Common Types Of Catastrophic Injuries

Why Does A Catastrophic Injury Make My Florida Claim Different?

Florida Catastrophic Injury Laws