April 29, 2025 | Catastrophic Injury

There are injuries that you can fully recover from in days, months or even a few years. However, there are others that have a lifelong impact. The latter type of injuries can alter the course of your life. You can go from being an active and productive member of society to not being able to carry out day to day tasks for the rest of your life. These injuries can take an economic and psychological on both the victim and their loved ones for the long term. It is therefore even more vital to fight for your rights when these injuries are the result of the negligence or reckless actions of another party.

What is a Catastrophic Injury?

Personal injury law in Nebraska defines catastrophic injuries as severe injuries that result in long-term or permanent disability or that significantly affect a victim’s ability to lead a normal life. These types of injuries often require extensive medical treatment, ongoing rehabilitation and can drastically alter the emotional, financial and physical well-being of both the victim and their loved ones.

Unlike minor injuries, victims of catastrophic injuries are often subject to immense pain and suffering, loss of function and long-term consequences that can span a lifetime.

Some examples of catastrophic injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Severe burns
• Amputations
• Organ damage
• Loss of sight or hearing
• Multiple bone fractures

Why Catastrophic injury Cases are Different from Other Injury Cases

• Higher stakes

Catastrophic injuries often result in lifelong disability or permanent changes in a person’s lifestyle. The financial stakes therefore are significantly higher. Victims may need compensation not just for current medical bills but also for future care, lost earning capacity and loss of quality of life.

• Long-term consequences

While m any personal injury cases involve temporary setbacks, catastrophic injuries have permanent or long-term effects. This means calculations for damages must account for decades into the future. Factors such as inflation, future surgeries and assistive technologies must be accounted for.

• More aggressive defense tactics

Because of the potentially high payouts, insurance companies will fight harder to deny or reduce your claim. They often have teams of attorneys and experts working to protect their bottom line.

• Impact on loved ones

Factors such as loss of consortium, emotional distress and family impact are often part of a catastrophic injury case but not other types of personal injury cases. These factors must be fully considered to ensure full compensation.

• Longer timelines

Due to their complexity, catastrophic injury cases often take longer to resolve. It is therefore important to plan for the long haul.

Why You Need a Catastrophic Injury Attorney

• Thorough case evaluation

Catastrophic injuries are often complex. These cases also involve complex legal and medical factors. Thorough evaluation the case is important in order to determine liability as well as to address damages accurately. An experienced attorney will not only have the know-how but also the resources necessary to ensure thorough evaluation of your case. They will work to build a strong claim on your behalf.

• Accurate valuation of your claim

Unlike typical injury claims, catastrophic injury cases often involve future costs such as long-term medical care, in-home assistance or nursing, physical therapy and rehabilitation, lost earning capacity and long term mental health support. Additional factors such as inflation must also be considered when determining the value of a claim. An experienced attorney will work with experts to estimate the true cost of your injury. This will give you a better chance of recovering maximum compensation and securing your future as well as that of your loved ones.

• Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. This is especially true when the stakes are high such as is the case with catastrophic injury claims. They may resort to the use of underhand tactics to try and minimize their payout or deny your claim. Having a skilled attorney levels the playing field. An experienced attorney will negotiate aggressively to ensure your rights and future are protected. They won’t cave on intimidation or be tricked by underhand tactics.

• Representation in court

If a fair settlement isn’t possible, you may have your case decided by a court. When this happens, your attorney will handle all aspects of preparing for trial. They will present your case to the court and argue on your behalf. They will work to secure a favorable outcome.

• Peace of mind during recovery

Filing a claim for a catastrophic injury can be overwhelming. This is on top of the stress of adjusting to your new normal. An attorney will take the legal burden off your shoulders. They will handle all aspects of the case including filing, documentation, communication and representation in court. You therefore can focus on getting your life back on track.

Have you or a loved one suffered a catastrophic injury? Contact High & Younes Attorneys, LLC. Schedule free consultation and learn how we can help you seek justice and secure your future and that of your loved ones.

Catastrophic Injury Attorney