Catastrophic injuries are not mere accidents, and if you or a loved one has suffered from such an injury, you know firsthand the devastating impact it can have. When these life-altering events are caused by another party’s negligence, specialized legal representation becomes not just a choice but a necessity.
At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we have been handling personal injury cases in Virginia since 1972. So, if you need a legal ally to help you navigate the legal process and recover the compensation you deserve, don’t hesitate to contact us to demand justice.
What Are Catastrophic Injuries?
Catastrophic injuries stand apart from other personal injuries due to their severe and long-lasting impact on the victim’s life. These are not only fractures or bruises: on the contrary, catastrophic injuries can lead to permanent disability or impairment, requiring lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.
Some common examples of catastrophic injuries include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations
- Burns
- Severe bone fractures that lead to complications like malunion or nonunion
If unfortunately, you suffered from a severe injury with catastrophic consequences due to the negligence of others, you have to know that you may be entitled to compensation to cover all the damages caused by an accident.
For answers to your questions about a catastrophic injury in Norfolk, call:
800-321-6741
Types of Catastrophic Injuries We Handle
Our experienced team is dedicated to helping clients recover the compensation they deserve for their catastrophic injuries, which often require long-term medical care and rehabilitation and can significantly impact a victim’s quality of life. Overall, these are common catastrophic injuries we handle:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Amputations, often resulting from surgical errors
- Burns
- Severe bone fractures leading to complications like malunion or nonunion
By providing comprehensive legal support, we help families navigate the complex legal process, ensuring they receive the compensation needed to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Our team is committed to fighting for justice on behalf of those who have suffered severe, life-changing injuries due to the negligence of others.
Causes of Catastrophic Injuries in Norfolk
In Norfolk, catastrophic injuries can occur in a variety of situations, but some accidents are more likely to result in these types of injuries. For example, car accidents or truck accidents are a common cause of catastrophic injuries, particularly those involving high speeds or multiple vehicles.
On the other hand, workplace accidents, such as falls from heights or accidents involving heavy machinery, can also result in catastrophic injuries. Additionally, premises liability cases (like slip-and-fall accidents) often result in catastrophic injuries.
But also, with decades of experience assisting victims of negligence, we saw how medical malpractice is another common cause of catastrophic injuries, particularly those cases involving surgical errors or misdiagnoses.
Who is Liable in a Catastrophic Injury Case?
Determining liability in catastrophic injury cases can be complex and it strictly depends on the specific circumstances of the case. For example, depending on the type of accident, the person liable can be a reckless driver, an employer who failed to maintain safety standards, or even a medical professional whose negligence led to irreversible harm.
In some cases, liability may be very clear: for example, in a car accident caused by a drunk driver. But, in other cases (like medical malpractice) it is more difficult to establish liability. That’s why it’s important to work with a lawyer who has experience in catastrophic injury cases and who can help you to effectively establish liability to hold all responsible parties accountable.
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Non-Economic Damages for Catastrophic Injuries
In addition to economic damages like medical bills and lost wages, victims of catastrophic injuries may also be entitled to non-economic damages. These damages compensate for the intangible losses that impact a victim’s quality of life.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering refer to the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the injury. This includes chronic pain, discomfort, and the emotional toll of coping with a severe injury.
Emotional Distress
Emotional distress covers the psychological impact of the injury, such as anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It considers the mental suffering a victim endures following a catastrophic injury.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Loss of enjoyment of life compensates for the inability to engage in activities and hobbies that the victim once enjoyed. This can include sports, recreational activities, and other aspects of daily living that contribute to one’s overall quality of life.
Loss of Consortium
Loss of consortium refers to the impact of the injury on the victim’s relationships, particularly with their spouse. This includes loss of companionship, affection, and sexual relations.
At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we carefully evaluate each case to ensure all applicable non-economic damages are included in the compensation claim. Our approach includes a thorough assessment to estimate the potential settlement accurately. Our case results provide examples of the significant amounts we have secured for our clients, and we are open to discussing real case results with you to set realistic expectations on the compensation you could receive.
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Legal Steps After Suffering a Catastrophic Injury in Norfolk
After a catastrophic injury, there are certain legal steps you should take to maximize your chances of securing appropriate compensation.
Once your immediate medical needs are addressed, the next step is to gather all available evidence. This includes photographs of the accident scene, eyewitness accounts, surveillance footage that may have captured the incident, and any other documentation pertinent to your case.
Also, make sure to collect the witnesses’ names and contact information, as their testimony could be invaluable later in the process. Additionally, obtain a copy of the police report (if applicable), as it provides an official account of the incident.
On the other hand, it’s wise to keep a meticulous record of all your medical treatments, including the names of the healthcare providers, the treatments received, and the medications prescribed. These records can be instrumental in demonstrating the extent of your injuries and the ongoing medical care you will require, thereby influencing the amount of compensation you are entitled to.
After gathering all available evidence, the next step would be to consult with an experienced personal injury lawyer as it’s essential for navigating all the legal procedures and ensuring your rights are protected.
Statute of Limitations for Catastrophic Injuries
In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years from the date of the injury (Virginia Code § 8.01-243.). This means that if you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, it is crucial to take legal action within this timeframe to preserve your right to seek compensation.
There can be exceptions, such as cases involving minors or the delayed discovery of injuries. Our attorneys can help you understand what deadlines apply to your specific situation and assist you in building a case and pursuing legal action within the appropriate time frame. We strongly advise you to contact us as soon as you can, so we can provide support in a free initial consultation with no upfront costs to you.
How a Norfolk Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Can Assist You
A lawyer can guide you through the whole legal system, from filing insurance claims to initiating legal proceedings if necessary. They can also advise you on the types of compensation you may be eligible for, which can extend beyond medical expenses to include lost wages, pain and suffering, and even punitive damages in some cases.
At Tronfeld West & Durrett, we have extensive experience in catastrophic injury cases, as you can see in our case results. We can help you navigate the legal process from start to finish by offering:
Case Evaluation and Investigation
When you first consult with us, we start by conducting a meticulous evaluation of your case. This involves gathering evidence, consulting with medical experts, and even reconstructing the accident scene if necessary.
Investigating the case helps to determine the extent of your injuries and the impact they had on your life, which will in turn determine the amount of compensation you can get according to the damages you can sustain. Armed with this information, we are able to build strong arguments and craft a solid ground of evidence to defend the case.
Settlement Negotiation and Litigation
After building a strong case and determining the compensation amount you are entitled to, the next step is to negotiate. Our lawyers can be pivotal in negotiating a fair settlement with the responsible party or their insurance company.
However, sometimes the insurance company is unwilling to offer a reasonable amount. In this scenario, we can take the case to court, presenting compelling arguments backed by solid evidence.
Recover Fair Compensation After a Catastrophic Injury in Norfolk
If you have suffered a catastrophic injury in Norfolk due to someone else’s negligence, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We have a specific understanding of Virginia laws and local regulations, and we can help you demand your rights.
Additionally, Tronfeld West & Durrett has over 50 years of experience seeking justice for personal injury victims. So, if you are ready to recover the compensation you deserve and move forward with your life, contact us today to get a free, detailed assessment of your case.
Call or text 800-321-6741 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form