A lawsuit based on a catastrophic injury can present certain challenges that aren’t found in other types of lawsuits. It can be difficult to get fair compensation for such an injury because it is hard to place a value on some accident-related losses. Clients can Visit the website for a discussion of what plaintiffs and defendants can expect in personal injury suits involving a catastrophic injury.
What Constitutes a Catastrophic Injury
It’s understood that catastrophic injuries are those that severely injure a plaintiff and have the potential for long-term or permanent disfigurement and disability. While the term has no precise legal definition, these injuries often involve lengthy recoveries. Victims may never be able to go back to work, hampering their ability to provide for their families.
A key factor in determining whether an injury is catastrophic is its debilitating nature and the potential for continued debility. If an injury victim cannot perform activities of daily living and will require assistance, their injury is likely to be considered catastrophic. Examples of such injuries include traumatic brain injuries, loss of a limb, severe burns, and paralysis. Proving damages can be difficult, and clients should discuss their cases with a Catastrophic Injury Attorney in Pennsylvania.
Catastrophic vs. Less Severe Injury Cases
When defendants are held liable for another person’s injuries, they are legally required to pay monetary damages. To the greatest extent possible, the plaintiff will get enough money to pay their medical bills and be compensated for the loss of enjoyment of life arising from the injury. Damages are usually much higher in catastrophic injury cases than in non-catastrophic ones, because the facts are complex and more difficult for Business Name to prove.
Caps on Compensation
Most jurisdictions set limits on the damages plaintiffs can recover if the injury was caused by a health care practitioner. Limits are typically imposed on damages for pain and suffering and diminished quality of life. These caps can vary, but are usually less than $750,000. Exceptions do exist for very severe injuries and intentional conduct by defendants. As was mentioned above, catastrophic injury cases can be very hard to prove, and an injured party may need the help of a Catastrophic Injury Attorney in Pennsylvania to document their damages.