DC Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Catastrophic injuries that lead to permanent impairments can fundamentally alter the course of your life. Traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and severe burn injuries are just a few of the catastrophic injuries that negligent conduct can cause. If others have caused you to suffer these injuries due to their negligent behavior, you may consider the merits of contacting a Washington, DC, catastrophic injury lawyer for advice.

When you sustain a significant injury, you may be subject to physical limitations and medical needs that you have not experienced before. You might be unable to return to work and require substantial modifications to your home and vehicle. A local personal injury lawyer at Gelb & Gelb, P.C., could help you seek damages to assist you with the financial costs of your injuries.

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Common Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries are typically those that result in significant physical or mental trauma and permanent disabilities. In many cases, those who have sustained a catastrophic injury will require specialized medical attention and personal care for the rest of their lives. These care requirements will likely necessitate substantial personal and professional lifestyle changes.

While catastrophic injuries encompass a wide range of injuries, some of the more common catastrophic injuries include:

The severity of these injuries may lead to some individuals being unable to pursue their former careers or work at their previous jobs. Their medical expenses are also likely to dramatically increase, perhaps permanently, as their ongoing need for medical attention continues. As a result, getting the advice of a catastrophic injury lawyer about potential legal options may be beneficial.

Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries

Some accidents that cause catastrophic injuries may be unpreventable and are not attributable to the actions of third parties. In other cases, however, accidents that lead to devastating injuries stem directly from the negligent or reckless behavior of others. In these circumstances, injury victims may have personal injury claims against the parties responsible for their accidents.

Catastrophic injuries may arise due to various types of accidents. Motor vehicle accidents are one major cause of catastrophic injuries, including spinal cord injuries, amputations, and brain injuries. Other common accidents that lead to devastating injuries are slips and falls, medical and surgical errors, recreational and sports injuries, and defective products.

Statutes of Limitation in Catastrophic Injury Claims

All states have different deadlines or statutes of limitations for filing lawsuits, and these deadlines may also vary according to the type of claim involved. DC Code § 12-301(8) states that individuals generally must file their personal injury claims within two years of the accident that caused them injuries.

Some exceptions to this general statute of limitations do exist. For example, a civil case involving injuries from an assault is subject to a one-year statute of limitations. On the other hand, an estate administrator must file a wrongful death action within two years of death.

Likewise, some situations “toll” or delay the start of the statute of limitations. If injury victims are minors under the age of 18, for instance, the three-year statute of limitations does not begin to run until the victims turn 18. Since complying with the applicable statute of limitations can be crucial to valid personal injury claims, getting guidance from a catastrophic injury attorney in Washington, DC, can be essential.

Talk to a Washington, DC, Catastrophic Injury Attorney

Catastrophic injuries often entail a lengthy road to recovery and the rebuilding of a much different life than you anticipated. Having financial support for you and your family during this challenging time can help your ability to seek medical treatment and care. Looking to a Washington, DC, catastrophic injury lawyer at Gelb & Gelb, P.C., for advice may be the best way to seek the compensation you need.

Negligent parties have a legal duty of liability for the accidents and resulting injuries that they cause. A personal injury claim can hold them culpable for their misconduct and the losses they have caused you. While compensation cannot heal your injuries, it can help you get the assistance you need to recover to the greatest extent possible. Schedule a consultation with Roger Gelb today.