Houston Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

In the context of personal injury law, a catastrophic injury prevents the victim from engaging in any type of gainful work.

Generally speaking, when an injury is so debilitating that the individual can no longer provide for his or her family, it will usually be considered catastrophic.

Catastrophic injuries carry particularly devastating physical, emotional, and financial consequences.

In many cases, the injury results in a lifetime of medical treatments and associated bills, lost wages, and a reduction in the victim’s overall enjoyment of life.

The consequences can ripple through the entire family, affecting everything from travel and hobbies to the victim’s ability to perform basic daily tasks. As a result, the individual may also suffer from emotional issues, such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

If you have suffered a catastrophic injury, a Houston personal injury lawyer can help you determine how to proceed.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys PLLC, we will review the details of your case and decide on the most appropriate legal strategy for moving forward. Contact us today for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

What is Considered a Catastrophic Injury?

A catastrophic injury is any severe injury that permanently alters your ability to live an everyday life. These injuries often result in long-term medical care, lost wages, and a permanent decrease in your quality of life.

While catastrophic injuries can occur under various circumstances, some of the most common causes include:

• Automobile accident: Motor vehicle accidents (especially those involving commercial trucks and motorcycles)
• Commercial truck accident
• Pedestrian or bicycle accident
• Metro-transit accident
• Fall accident
• Fire or explosion
• Dog attack
• Medical malpractice
• Premises liability accident

Types of Catastrophic Injuries in Houston

Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): 

More than 144,000 people suffer a TBI annually in Texas.

Organ damage: 

Abdominal organs (abdominal wall, spleen, liver, kidneys, pancreas, colon, small intestine, stomach, and bladder) are commonly affected by blunt trauma to the body, often resulting in catastrophic injuries.

Spinal cord injuries: 

Every year in the United States, there are about 12,000 new cases of spinal cord injuries.

Amputations: 

Approximately 185,000 amputations occur in the U.S. annually, and 45 percent of those are caused by trauma.

Severe burns: 

On average, a person is injured in a fire every 30 minutes. Hazardous chemical or substance exposure: Chemical and toxic substance hazards can cause long-term health issues, such as cancer and respiratory problems, but they can also cause trauma due to their flammability and explosibility.

Each of these injuries has a profound effect on the injured individual and their families. 

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, the Houston catastrophic injury attorneys at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys PLLC can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.

Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries aren’t just life-altering in the immediate aftermath of an accident; they have a profound and long-lasting impact. 

Beyond the initial medical care, these injuries can cause permanent physical limitations, decreasing the ability to work, perform daily tasks, and enjoy hobbies. 

The emotional and psychological toll can be significant as well, with depression, anxiety, and PTSD commonly affecting victims. 

Understanding the long-term consequences of catastrophic injuries is crucial for both those who have suffered them and the families who support them.  

How can a Houston Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Help?

If you have suffered a catastrophic injury due to the negligence of another, you may be able to obtain compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other associated costs.

Recovering these damages, however, can be a complex and lengthy process.

An experienced Houston catastrophic injury attorney can help you gather evidence to substantiate your claim, deal with the insurance companies and other involved parties, and position you for the best possible outcome so that you can focus on healing.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys PLLC, we have extensive experience with catastrophic injury claims.

Our compassionate, knowledgeable attorneys understand how the insurance companies think, and we will work tirelessly to get you the settlement you deserve.

We also have a team of experts and investigators who will work together to calculate a reasonable settlement for your injury.

Although the goal is to reach a settlement out of court, we are prepared to take your case to trial if necessary.

Why Choose DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for Catastrophic Injury Cases

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, our legal team will work with you to build a strong case by:

• Investigating the cause of the accident to determine liability
• Gathering evidence, such as medical records and accident reports
• Calculating the full extent of your damages, including future medical expenses and lost income
• Negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf to obtain a fair settlement
• Representing you in court if necessary

Our attorneys understand the significant impact a catastrophic injury can have on your life, and we are here to help you obtain the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Higher Settlements When Working with a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

The complexities of catastrophic injury cases often result in higher settlements than typical personal injury claims. When you work with a skilled Houston catastrophic injury lawyer, you can expect more substantial compensation for the following reasons:

Thorough assessment of damages: 

A Houston catastrophic injury lawyer will ensure that all current and future damages are included in your claim. This includes ongoing medical care, physical therapy, and loss of earning potential.

Insurance negotiations: 

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts, but an experienced lawyer can handle these negotiations effectively to secure the highest possible settlement.

Expert testimony: 

Sometimes, your attorney may bring in medical and financial experts to testify, strengthening your case.

Filing a Claim After a Catastrophic Injury in Houston

Working with a Houston catastrophic injury lawyer is in your best interest if you have sustained a devastating injury.

The process of filing a catastrophic injury claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with the aftermath of a severe injury. Here are the key steps involved in filing a claim:

1. Gather evidence: Collect all relevant evidence, including medical records, police reports, and witness statements. Your attorney will also investigate the circumstances of the accident to gather additional proof of negligence.
2. File a third-party claim: Once the evidence is gathered, your lawyer will file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. This is known as a third-party claim.
3. Negotiate a settlement: In most cases, your lawyer will attempt to settle with the insurance company before going to trial. Your attorney may recommend filing a lawsuit if a fair settlement is not offered.
4. Litigation: Your case may go to trial if a settlement cannot be reached. Your lawyer will represent you in court and advocate for the maximum compensation you deserve.

The DeHoyos Accident Attorneys PLLC team is well-versed in handling catastrophic injury claims. We will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your rights are protected.

Damages You Can Receive for a Catastrophic Injury Claim in Houston

Because catastrophic injuries have such devastating implications, damages tend to be much higher than in most personal injury cases.

Most victims of catastrophic injuries have lost the ability to earn an income for the rest of their lives.

As if that isn’t bad enough, total damages often include medical treatments and rehabilitation, which may continue for a lifetime.

The costs above are relatively straightforward to calculate. Still, the value attached to the emotional pain and suffering that often accompanies a catastrophic injury is more subjective.

Your Houston personal injury lawyer will thoroughly analyze the details of your case to ensure that the damages sought are adequate to compensate you for the full value of your pain and suffering.

Following a catastrophic injury, you may be able to obtain compensation for the following damages:

• Medical bills: Ambulance costs, emergency treatment, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation and physical therapy, doctor visits, prescription medications, durable medical equipment
• Lost wages: Based on current and future loss of earning potential
• Pain and suffering: Physical and emotional suffering
• Permanent disability: Disability benefits if you are unable to return to work
• Wrongful death: Loved ones may bring a wrongful death lawsuit if the victim succumbs to his/her injuries

Texas Catastrophic Injury Laws

Whether you have been injured due to medical malpractice, a defective product, a slip and fall accident, or a motor vehicle crash, if negligence played a role, you may have a successful personal injury claim.

In Texas, catastrophic injury cases fall under the broader category of personal injury law.

Even so, these cases are nearly always more complicated due to the severity of the injuries involved.

When negligence is a factor in an injury accident, you may be able to recover damages from the at-fault party or parties.

In order to prove negligence, you must be able to show that:

• The defendant owed the plaintiff a duty of care
• The defendant breached that duty of care
• The breach of duty caused the injury
• The plaintiff suffered damages as a result of the injury

PENAL CODE: TITLE 1. INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS: CHAPTER 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS

While the Penal Code (Title 1) outlines general criminal provisions, it doesn’t directly address personal injury claims. You’ll need to consult personal injury statutes and case law specific to Texas for those.

Texas Statute of Limitations on Catastrophic Injury Claims

In Texas, the statute of limitations for filing a catastrophic injury claim is two years from the date of the injury. While this may seem like ample time, beginning the claims process as soon as possible is essential. 

Waiting too long can negatively affect your case, as evidence may disappear, memories fade, and the severity of the injury may be called into question.

To protect your rights and maximize your chances of receiving compensation, contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys PLLC today for a free case evaluation.

Preparing for Permanent Disability For Life

Permanent disability occurs when an injury or illness prevents you from engaging in everyday activities or performing your job. 

It can result from accidents, diseases, or congenital conditions. If you’re facing permanent disability, it’s crucial to take proactive steps to secure your future.

Contact Houston’s DeHoyos Accident Attorneys PLLC Today

The skilled legal team at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help if you have suffered a catastrophic injury.

Our compassionate lawyers have decades of experience with these types of claims, and we will work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.

Do not assume that any personal injury attorney can handle a catastrophic injury case.

These cases are highly complex and typically involve much higher damages.

If you have been injured due to another’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and other costs.

Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys today at (832) 753-5908 for a free and confidential consultation about your case.

Houston Catastrophic Injury Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is considered a catastrophic injury?

A catastrophic injury causes permanent or long-term disability, preventing the victim from working or enjoying a standard quality of life. Examples include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and amputations.

2. How much compensation can I receive for a catastrophic injury claim?

The amount of compensation depends on several factors, including the severity of your injury, the impact on your ability to work, and the cost of medical care. Your lawyer will help calculate the full extent of your damages.

3. How long do I have to file a claim for a catastrophic injury in Texas?

You have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim in Texas. Acting quickly to ensure you have the most robust case possible is essential.

4. Can I still recover damages if I am partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, Texas follows a comparative negligence rule. As long as you are less than 51% at fault, you can still recover damages, though your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.

5. Do I need a lawyer for a catastrophic injury claim?

Given the complexity of catastrophic injury cases, working with an experienced lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and negotiate with insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve is highly recommended.