Houston Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

What Is a “Catastrophic” Injury? 

Generally speaking, an injury that causes significant and permanent disability, impairment, or limitation of a bodily system, function, or member is considered “catastrophic.” 

Some examples of catastrophic injuries include:

• Burn injuries 
• Multiple fractures
• Spine injuries 
• Paralysis 
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Amputation 
• Hearing loss 
• Vision loss 
• Disfigurement 

Certain illnesses and medical conditions, including many mental health disorders, may also be considered “catastrophic.” If an injury, illness, or medical condition significantly affects the individual’s life, it may be categorized as a “catastrophic injury.” 

Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries 

Any serious accident or traumatic event may result in catastrophic injuries. However, some incidents more commonly cause these types of injuries than others.

The leading causes of catastrophic injury include: 

• Motor vehicle accidents 
• Pedestrian-vehicle collisions 
• ATV, boating, and other recreation accidents
• Falls, including slips, trips, and falls
• Swimming and diving accidents 
• Explosions and fires 
• Medical errors and malpractice 
• Birth injuries 
• Nursing home abuse and neglect 
• Defective products 
• Workplace accidents 
• Structure collapses
• Large truck and commercial vehicle accidents
• Unsafe property conditions 

A common underlying theme is negligence. Many catastrophic injuries result not from the carelessness or recklessness of the victim but, rather, the negligent or wrongful conduct of another party. Victims and/or their family members have the right to take legal action when this is the case. 

The Effects of a Catastrophic Injury

Catastrophic injuries can have profound and long-lasting effects, both physically and psychologically. Here's an overview of some of the potential long-term impacts:

• Physical Impairment: Catastrophic injuries often result in significant physical impairments, such as paralysis, loss of limb function, or chronic pain. These physical limitations can persist for a lifetime and may require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, and assistive devices like wheelchairs or prosthetics.
• Medical Complications: Individuals with catastrophic injuries may be at increased risk of developing secondary medical complications, such as pressure ulcers, urinary tract infections, or respiratory problems. Managing these complications can be challenging and may require ongoing medical supervision.
• Psychological Effects: Coping with a catastrophic injury can lead to psychological challenges such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or feelings of grief and loss. Adjusting to a new way of life, dealing with limitations, and facing uncertainty about the future can all contribute to emotional distress.
• Impact on Daily Life: Catastrophic injuries can significantly impact a person's ability to perform daily activities independently. Simple tasks like getting dressed, preparing meals, or using the bathroom may become challenging or impossible without assistance, leading to a loss of autonomy and increased reliance on others.
• Financial Strain: The financial burden of a catastrophic injury can be immense. Medical expenses, ongoing therapy, home modifications, and assistive devices can all contribute to financial strain. Additionally, many individuals with catastrophic injuries may be unable to work or may face reduced earning potential, further exacerbating financial difficulties.
• Impact on Relationships: Catastrophic injuries can strain relationships with family members, friends, and caregivers. Relationship roles and dynamics may change, and caregivers may experience increased stress and burnout. Maintaining healthy relationships and support networks becomes crucial but can be challenging.
• Loss of Identity and Lifestyle: For individuals who were active and independent before their injury, adjusting to life with a catastrophic injury can entail a loss of identity and significant lifestyle changes. Hobbies, recreational activities, and career aspirations may need to be reevaluated, leading to loss and frustration.
• Legal and Advocacy Challenges: Navigating the legal and insurance systems to obtain compensation, disability benefits, or access to necessary medical care and support services can be complex and time-consuming. Advocacy may be required to ensure that the individual's rights are protected and their needs are met.

Overall, the long-term effects of a catastrophic injury are multifaceted and can impact every aspect of a person's life. Comprehensive support, including medical care, rehabilitation, emotional support, financial assistance, and advocacy, is often required to help individuals adjust to their new circumstances and live fulfilling lives despite their injuries.

Fighting for Full Compensation and Justice for Catastrophic Injury Victims

At the Law Offices of Willie D. Powells III PLLC, we recognize catastrophic injuries' immense impact on victims and their families. We aim to recover the fair amount you are owed for your damages. In some cases, you may even be entitled to punitive damages. Unlike the compensatory damages listed here, punitive damages are not meant to compensate you for your specific losses after a severe injury. Instead, they are awarded to punish the defendant for gross negligence, egregious misconduct, or willful/wanton disregard for the lives, safety, and well-being of others.  Our firm can review the details of your case and determine what types of compensation you are entitled to receive and the potential overall value of your claim. 

We are here to provide the information you need to make empowered decisions about your case, recovery, and future. Depending on the specific details of your catastrophic injury case, you could be entitled to compensation for the following economic and non-economic damages: 

• Emergency medical care
• Hospitalization 
• Ambulance/emergency transportation fees
• Prescription and over-the-counter medications
• Medical treatments and care
• Rehabilitation 
• Physical therapy 
• Medical devices and equipment
• Prosthetics 
• Future medical expenses
• Lost income, wages, and employment benefits 
• Physical and mental pain and suffering 
• Loss of future earnings and benefits 
• Lost or diminished earning capacity 
• Disfigurement 
• Mental anguish and distress
• In-home assistance and care costs 
• Home modifications to accommodate a new disability

Statute of Limitations for Catastrophic Injury Claims in Texas

Texas law limits the time you have to file a lawsuit after suffering a catastrophic injury. Typically, victims have two years from the date of the injury to pursue legal action. Missing this deadline may result in losing the right to seek compensation. However, some exceptions could extend this time frame, such as if the victim is a minor or if the injury was not immediately apparent. 

For instance, if the injured party is under 18, the two-year period may not start until they reach adulthood. Similarly, if an injury isn't immediately discovered, the clock may start from when it was identified or should have been. To protect your right to compensation, it's crucial to understand and meet the legal deadlines. Our attorneys at the Law Offices of Willie D. Powells III PLLC are here to help you and ensure your claim is submitted on time.

Contact Our Houston Catastrophic Injury Attorney Today

At the Law Offices of Willie D. Powells III PLLC, we recognize the immense difficulties that catastrophic injuries bring to victims and their families. Our experienced Houston catastrophic injury attorney is dedicated to guiding you through the legal process and helping you pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. We are here to support you every step of the way, fighting for your rights and working to ensure you have the financial resources needed for your future. Contact us today to learn how we can help you seek justice and recovery.

Contact Law Offices of Willie D. Powells III today to schedule a meeting with our catastrophic injury lawyer in Houston!