English 
Spanish A catastrophic injury can result in significant changes to your physical appearance or ability. In some cases, a catastrophic injury can result in the loss of a loved one. Obtaining financial compensation in such cases can be an emotional and challenging legal process. It is not one you have to navigate alone.
From consultation to compensation, a comprehensive guide to hiring a catastrophic injury lawyer can help you connect with the right catastrophic injury lawyer. They can examine the details of your case, assess the value of your case, and fight for the financial compensation you are entitled to recover.
What to Expect at Your Initial Consultation With a Catastrophic Injury Attorney
When hiring a law firm, one of the first steps you can take is to request a review of your case. This initial consultation is usually cost and obligation-free. It allows you and the law firm to learn about each other. A personal injury lawyer at the law firm may ask questions like:
- When did the accident occur?
- What types of injuries did you endure?
- Do you know the identity of the at-fault party?
- Have you spoken to other law firms?
- Do you have testimonials from previous clients?
You can—and should—ask questions as well, including:
- Have you handled cases like these?
- What is the financial recovery process?
- Will my case settle or go to trial?
- How much is my case worth?
- What is your fee?
Ask these questions during your legal consultation when choosing a personal injury attorney for your specific case. Doing so can help you make a well-informed choice.
Your Accident Attorney Will Define What Constitutes a Catastrophic Injury in California
Recovering from a catastrophic injury can require your full time and attention. Being represented by a local law firm can help you save time on your case and help secure a favorable outcome. A personal injury attorney will represent clients seeking compensation for the following types of catastrophic injuries:
- Lasting or permanent scarring
- Limb loss through amputation
- Loss of sight or hearing
- Multiple bone fractures
- Severe and disfiguring burns
- Severe organ damage or loss
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Your accident lawyer can clarify personal injury and insurance laws that govern your case, protect your rights, and outline the insurance company’s responsibilities.
Compensation a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Will Demand on Your Behalf
Catastrophic injury claims allow you to seek fair compensation for the following financial expenses and losses:
- Current and future medical bills
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Current and future income loss
- Loss of future earning ability
- Physical pain and suffering
- Mental and emotional distress
Wrongful death damages, where applicable, include the loss of your loved one’s domestic and financial contributions to your family. They also include loss of consortium, companionship, and support.
Steps Involved in Negotiating Settlements in Compensation Claims
Most personal injury cases are resolved with a settlement rather than a trial. To secure a fair settlement, the negotiation process typically involves:
- Reviewing the at-fault party’s insurance limitations
- Proving the at-fault party’s negligence caused your injuries
- Documenting the extent and severity of your injuries
- Assessing the monetary value of your recoverable damages
- Fielding settlement offers and making counteroffers
- Clarifying the feasibility of each offer you receive
- Fighting for the best possible financial outcome
CIV § 1714 allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident—as long as 100% of the fault can be attributed to your actions. Your lawyer will fight for a fair distribution of fault and protect you from unfair allegations if you did not contribute to the accident.
Avoid a Potentially Costly Delay in Filing Your Personal Injury Lawsuit
The personal injury and wrongful death statute of limitations is generally two years, according to CCP § 335.1. If the filing deadline expires, you could unintentionally forfeit your right to file your lawsuit.
In addition, the at-fault party’s representatives may request that your lawsuit be dismissed if it is filed late. This request is likely to be granted, leaving you with no further legal recourse. You can avoid these costly consequences by letting a lawyer handle the filing of your lawsuit.
Find Out How Hard We Fight for You After a Catastrophic Injury
If you or a family member suffered a catastrophic injury, it can lead to lifelong physical changes that affect every part of your life. From consultation to compensation, our comprehensive guide to hiring a catastrophic injury lawyer can help you recover fair and appropriate damages.
Learn more about how hard we fight for families just like yours by contacting KJT Law Group.
