Catastrophic injuries can change everything. If you suffered severe brain damage or have undergone an amputation, you face years of medical care and a complete shift in your daily life. If another party’s negligence caused your injuries, it is important to pursue the full amount of compensation you are legally entitled to.

Under state law, you can seek numerous types of damages. Insurance companies often fight hardest in catastrophic injury cases because these damages can be so substantial. That is why it is critical to work with an experienced Fresno catastrophic injury lawyer from Dunnion Law. Our firm has been operating for over 50 years, and our compassionate personal injury attorneys can investigate what happened to you and work to hold the responsible parties accountable.

What Is a Catastrophic Injury?

In legal terms, an injury qualifies as catastrophic if it has long-term or permanent consequences, such as destroying the victim’s ability to work or enjoy life in the same way they previously did. The most common catastrophic injuries include:

  • Multiple fractures that permanently limit strength or mobility
  • Major burns
  • Amputation or loss of limb function
  • Severe heart, lung, or kidney damage
  • Spinal cord damage, including paralysis
  • Severe traumatic brain injuries that affect memory, concentration, or movement
  • Major joint injuries to the shoulder, hips, knees or ankles, and wrist

Severe injuries often have lasting effects on loved ones who must become caregivers or help cover the victims’ medical costs. These family members may face emotional and financial strains. Dunnion Law is a family-run firm dedicated to supporting clients through these challenges. Meet with a catastrophic injury lawyer from our firm in Fresno to learn how we can provide support and guidance throughout every stage of your case.

Damages Available After Catastrophic Harm

Claims involving catastrophic harm differ from other personal injury cases because the needs of severe injury victims are so much greater. Under state law, those affected can pursue damages for:

  • Inconvenience
  • Disfigurement
  • Physical impairment
  • Pain and suffering, trauma, and loss of quality of life
  • The cost of adaptive modifications for their home or vehicle
  • Lost income from missed work and diminished future earning capacity
  • The cost of surgeries, hospitalizations, prescriptions, rehabilitation, and in-home care
  • Financial support for families in case of wrongful death (under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60)

State law does not impose a cap on damages in most personal injury cases. Juries or settlement negotiations determine damages in catastrophic injury claims. Having our experienced Fresno attorneys advocate for maximum benefits on your behalf can make a significant difference in your catastrophic injury case.

How Fault Affects Compensation

Under the state’s pure comparative negligence law, the amount of compensation the injured party receives is reduced based on how much they are to blame. For example, if a jury awards $5 million to an injured person but finds they were 20 percent responsible for the incident that harmed them, they will receive $4 million.

State law does not bar recovery if the injured party’s fault exceeds 50 percent. This means that even if you are found mostly at fault for your catastrophic injury in Fresno, our attorneys may still be able to pursue partial recovery on your behalf.

Call Our Fresno Attorneys if You Suffered a Catastrophic Injury

Cases involving catastrophic injuries can be long and complicated. Typically, they involve extensive investigations and fights with insurance companies. If you suffered a devastating injury, state law provides tools to help you rebuild your life. However, you may need legal assistance to pursue maximum recovery.

A Fresno catastrophic injury lawyer from our firm can explain the legal process to you and ensure you understand your rights and know your options. You do not have to face your uncertain future alone. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.