Physical & Emotional Injuries

What is a catastrophic personal injury?

The biggest personal injury cases involve individuals who have suffered a catastrophic injury. A personal injury is considered "catastrophic" if it is so severe that it requires extensive or long-term medical treatment, intensive reconstructive surgery, or results in permanent disfigurement, scarring or disability. Generally speaking, any injury that causes loss of motor skills or function is considered catastrophic. Catastrophic injuries cause substantial short-term and long-term pain and suffering for the individual impacted—not only physical discomfort, but also significant financial and emotional distress.

While a catastrophic injury is often traumatic for the survivor, it can also be life-changing for their spouse, family and friends. If you've survived a severe injury, then you probably face a number of hardships such as seeking full-time medical care, being forced to change professions or quit working altogether, and learning how to live within your new mobility or cognitive limitations. All of these difficulties can put tremendous stress and strain on survivors of catastrophic injuries and their loved ones. In some cases, you may be able to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit, which will help you to focus on recovery.

Visit our Personal Injury Basics page to learn more about the basics of personal injury law, including negligence, finding a lawyer and the statute of limitations.