If you or a loved one has suffered a life-changing injury after a serious accident, you may be searching for answers—and for help. These types of injuries, known as catastrophic injuries, often lead to long-term medical care, job loss, and major life changes. In cases like these, speaking with a catastrophic injury attorney can be one of the most important steps you take toward getting the care and compensation you deserve.
What Is a Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury is a serious injury that changes how you live your life. These injuries often cause long-term or permanent problems. You may not be able to walk, work, or take care of yourself the way you used to.
Catastrophic injuries include:
- Spinal cord damage
- Brain injuries
- Amputations
- Severe burns
- Vision or hearing loss
- Organ damage
These injuries usually require long-term medical care and can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars or more.
Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries
Many people suffer catastrophic injuries in:
- Car or truck crashes
- Oilfield and industrial accidents
- Fires and explosions
- Falls
- Construction site accidents
- Defective product incidents
In Texas, many of these injuries happen on the job or on busy highways.
Why You Need a Catastrophic Injury Attorney
If someone else caused your injury, a catastrophic injury attorney can help you get compensation. This money can pay for your:
- Medical bills
- Surgeries and rehabilitation
- Wheelchairs, lifts, and necessary home renovations
- Lost wages and future income
- Pain and emotional distress
These cases are complex, and the stakes are high. You’ll want an experienced lawyer to gather evidence, hire experts, and fight for full compensation.
Catastrophic Injuries and Their Costs
The numbers below show how often catastrophic injuries happen and how much they can cost.
Can I File a Lawsuit?
Yes, if someone else’s actions caused your injury, you can often file a personal injury lawsuit. In Texas, the law allows victims to seek damages when another party was negligent or reckless.
To win your case, your lawyer must show:
- Someone owed you a duty of care (like a safe workplace or road)
- They failed in that duty
- Their actions caused your catastrophic injury
- You suffered serious, lasting harm
Don’t Negotiate with an Insurance Company on Your Own
Insurance companies may try to pay you less than you deserve. They often offer low settlements early—before the full cost of your injury is known. A catastrophic injury attorney works to protect your rights and can negotiate with insurers to get a better result.
What Is the Time Limit to File?
In most Texas cases, you generally have two years from the date of your injury to file a lawsuit. But don’t wait. Medical evidence, witness statements, and surveillance footage are harder to collect the longer you delay.
Frequently Asked Questions for Those in Need of a Catastrophic Injury Attorney
Q: What is considered a catastrophic injury?
A: A catastrophic injury is any injury that causes permanent damage or long-term disability. Examples include brain damage, paralysis, or limb loss.
Q: Will I need lifelong medical care?
A: Many catastrophic injury victims need long-term treatment, home care, or mobility aids.
Q: How much money can I get?
A: The amount depends on your injury, the care you need, lost income, and how your life has changed.
Q: Do I have to go to court?
A: Not always. Many cases settle out of court, but your lawyer should be ready for trial if needed.
Final Thoughts
A catastrophic injury changes everything. If you or someone you love has suffered a life-changing injury, you don’t have to face it alone. A catastrophic injury attorney can guide you through your legal options and help you seek justice.
Nelson J. Roach is a partner at the Roach Law Firm in Daingerfield, Texas. Over the last 30 years, Nelson has represented thousands of clients in many groundbreaking cases. Read more…
