A catastrophic injury refers to severe injuries that often result in long-term or permanent disabilities. These can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, multiple fractures, and amputations.
The aftermath of such injuries does not just impact the individual but also their entire family, altering their way of life and day-to-day needs. After a catastrophic injury, victims often need alterations to their living situations, ongoing medical care, and therapy.
If you or a loved one has experienced a catastrophic injury in Washington, it is essential to consult with an experienced Everett personal injury attorney at Wells|Trumbull promptly who can help you understand your legal rights and how they can aid in your recovery. Contact us at (360)435-1663 today for a free consultation.
Pursuing Compensation for a Catastrophic Injury in Washington
What sets catastrophic injuries apart is that they often result in permanent disability, the need for long-term medical care, and/or shortened life expectancies. Victims of catastrophic injuries may be entitled to receive substantial compensation for damages like:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Loss of past and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
The state of Washington follows the “pure comparative fault” rule allowing injured parties to recover damages even if they are partially at fault, though the award is reduced by their degree of fault.
This means even if you were 99% responsible for the accident causing your injury, you could still recover 1% of your damages. This is crucial for catastrophic injury cases where medical bills can be astronomically high.
Furthermore, Washington does not impose a cap on damages for personal injury cases. This means that there is no limit to the amount you can recover for non-economic damages like pain and suffering.
Establishing Liability for a Catastrophic Injury
Establishing liability is pivotal in catastrophic injury cases. This involves demonstrating that the defendant owed you a duty of care, breached that duty, and consequently, you suffered injuries. Furthermore, relevant case law reveals the significance of sound evidence in securing favorable outcomes for victims of catastrophic injuries, underscoring the need for substantial medical documentation and expert testimonies to substantiate the extent of the injury and its impact on your life and the lives of your loved ones.
The Role of an Experienced Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
Navigating the maze of legal procedures necessary to recover compensation can be overwhelming, especially when you are dealing with the physical and emotional trauma of a catastrophic injury. This is where an experienced Everett catastrophic injury attorney from Wells|Trumbull becomes invaluable. Here is why:
- Case Evaluation: Every case is unique. An catastrophic injury attorney can assess the specifics of your situation, helping you understand the potential value of your claim.
- Negotiation: Insurance companies are notorious for offering settlements that might seem substantial but often fall short of covering all the expenses and impacts of a catastrophic injury. An experienced catastrophic injury lawyer will know how to negotiate to get you the fair compensation you deserve.
- Litigation: If negotiations do not yield a fair settlement, your catastrophic injury lawyer will be prepared to take your case to court. With their intimate knowledge of Washington’s legal landscape, they can advocate fiercely on your behalf.
Timing is Everything in a Catastrophic Injury Case
Washington has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases. This means you have three years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. While this might seem like plenty of time, building a robust case, especially for catastrophic injuries, can be time-consuming. The earlier you get a skilled catastrophic injury attorney in Everett started on your case, the better your chances of achieving the most favorable outcome.
Reach Out to an Experienced Everett Catastrophic Injury Attorney at Wells|Trumbull
Sustaining a catastrophic injury is a life-altering event, but you do not have to face the consequences alone. With the expertise of an experienced Everett catastrophic injury lawyer, you can focus on your recovery and rehabilitation, knowing that your legal rights and financial interests are protected.
Remember, it is not just about seeking compensation; it is about ensuring that you and your family can find a way forward in the aftermath of a devastating injury. If you find yourself in such a situation, reach out to Wells|Trumbull for a free consultation. Help is just a phone call away.