When Is an Injury Considered Catastrophic? Key Legal Criteria for NJ Personal Injury Victims

When a person suffers from a catastrophic injury, he suffers from severe results. His family also goes through emotional and financial trauma. On top of that, you must learn when is an injury considered catastrophic legally to get suitable compensation. Our personal injury attorneys at CourtLaw Injury Lawyers, New Jersey, have extensive professional experience. They can help all types of victims in such circumstances.

This article will guide you about the legal criteria to understand the catastrophic injury. You must know the specific implications for compensation and why professional help is necessary.

Explaining When Is An Injury Considered Catastrophic

Legal Overview Of The Catastrophic Injuries

In legal meanings, catastrophic injuries mean:

• Permanent disability. 
• Long-term medical conditions.
• Reduction in a healthy and quality life. 

Such injuries affect the work life and careers of the victims. People have to get proper medical care and rehabilitation to get better.

Understanding Catastrophic Injuries in New Jersey

• TBI: It’s a brain injury caused by an external force. It causes internal bleeding, swelling, and tearing, which injures the nerve fibres. 
• Spinal Damage: It includes complete or partial paralysis.
• Amputations: Loss of limbs, hands, or feet.
• Severe Burn Injuries: Third-degree burns leading to disfigurement and disability.
• Several Fractures: Compound fractures that cause lasting physical impairment.
• Organ Damage: Serious internal injuries affecting organs such as the liver, kidneys, or lungs.

There are various reasons for catastrophic injuries such as 

• Car crashes. 
• Workplace accidents. 
• Trips and falls. 
• Construction place accidents. 

Catastrophic Injury Claims’ Criteria in NJ

When you or your loved ones are suffering through severe injuries, qualifying as catastrophic, understanding the given criteria is required. 

1. Permanent Medical Impairment

They are severe injuries leading to permanent or long-term impairment or disabilities. Permanent disability might involve:

• Spinal cord damage because of paralysis.
• Brain injuries from cognitive impairment. 
• Loss of limbs or permanent damage to bodily functions.

2. Inability to Work

Your injury is catastrophic when you cannot continue your employment. You may have to leave your job or do low-paying employment because of physical restrictions. Such as spinal injuries or TBI restricting your physical and cognitive movements.

3. Permanent Medical Assistance

People suffering from catastrophic injuries require permanent or long-term medical care and expensive equipment. This part makes catastrophic injuries more dangerous for victims. Common requirements include:

• They must get physical therapies and rehabilitation.  
• They have to use expensive medical equipment like wheelchairs, prosthetics, or hospital beds.
• They may also need a caretaker at home.

4. Affect On Your Daily Life

You cannot enjoy your social activities and maintain healthy relationships because of catastrophic injuries. Signs include:

• Severe depression or anxiety due to loss of independence.
• Inability to partake in hobbies or sports previously enjoyed.
• Strained relationships with family or friends due to emotional changes.

Compensation Needs Of The Victims

When is an injury considered catastrophic? Catastrophic injuries cause the victims to demand compensation claims. It is especially because of the severe impact of such injuries on the victims’ lives. Here’s what compensation might cover:

1. Medical Expenses

• Immediate medical costs (surgeries, hospitalisation)
• Continuous physical and mental treatments.
• Adaptive Equipment.

2. Lost Income and Earning Capacity

• Victims lose wages or salaries because of treatments and healing periods. 
• Victims have to choose low-paying jobs because of low-earning potentials caused by injuries. 

3. Misery And Torment

• Physical pain endured due to the injury
• Depression, tension, and emotional issues. 

4. Loss of Companionship

• Compensation for the impact of the injury on family relationships, particularly with spouses and children

5. Home Modifications

• Adjustments required to accommodate new disabilities (wheelchair ramps, accessible bathrooms)

6. Exemplary Damages

• It’s suitable for cases where gross negligence or intentional misconduct are used.

Why Prefer a Personal Injury Lawyer for Catastrophic Injury Claims?

You must have professional knowledge of catastrophic injuries to get claims. The following reasons can help you better understand an experienced personal injury attorney’s services.

Solve Legal Complications And Make A Strong Case

A professional attorney understands the requirements of evidence and medical documentation. He will explain the severity of your injuries and how you qualify for catastrophic under New Jersey law. 

Help To Get Required Compensation

You can rely on your personal attorney to get fair compensation. They are skilled in knowing the full value of your claims by considering: 

• Your medical expenses. 
• Work loss. 
• Physical pain and suffering. 

Manages Insurance Companies On Your Behalf

Mostly, insurance companies try to minimise your claims. A legal attorney negotiates on your behalf and argues with legal evidence. It ensures you can get your specific compensation according to your injuries’ severity. 

Lawsuits and Assessment Periods

If simple arguments and negotiations don’t work, the attorney represents you legally in the court. Your chances of getting compensation increase this way. 

Relieving Stress

You can recover physically and mentally while the experienced attorney legally solves your issues. 

How CourtLaw Injury Lawyers Prove Beneficial For Injury Victims?

When is an injury considered catastrophic? Our experienced personal injury attorneys at CourtLaw Injury Lawyers, New Jersey, have solved various cases of catastrophic injury victims successfully. We know how difficult it is for victims and their loved ones to handle such injuries. We are dedicated to helping victims secure fair and deserving compensation. We can help you in the following ways: 

• Free Consultation: We will examine your case and help you determine whether it meets the criteria for a catastrophic injury claim. 
• Case Investigation: Our professional team will make a strong case by gathering evidence, medical records, testimonies, etc. 
• Negotiation & Litigation: We will manage the insurance companies and will represent you legally in court, too. 
• Compassionate Support: With our lawyer’s support, the entire legal procedure becomes smooth and reliable.

Discuss Your Personal Injury Lawsuit By Contacting CourtLaw Injury Lawyers Today!

When is an injury considered catastrophic? At CourtLaw Injury Lawyers, NJ, we can help you if you or your loved ones have suffered a catastrophic injury. We are here to offer you complete legal guidance and ensure you can get the compensation you deserve! A free consultation awaits, and you just have to Contact us today!n.