What is a Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury is a severe injury that permanently alters a person’s ability to live and work as they did before the accident. Unlike minor injuries that heal over time, catastrophic injuries often require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, or adaptive assistance.
The legal definition of a catastrophic injury typically includes any injury that significantly impacts daily functioning or causes permanent disability. These claims are often more complex because of the extensive damages involved, such as future medical expenses, loss of earning capacity, and long-term pain and suffering.
Catastrophic injuries can occur in a variety of circumstances—car accidents, workplace accidents, falls, or defective product cases. Some of the most common types include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Damage to the brain that may result in cognitive impairment, memory loss, or permanent disability.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries that can cause partial or total paralysis, including paraplegia or quadriplegia.
- Severe Burn Injuries: Burns that require skin grafts, surgeries, and result in permanent scarring or disfigurement.
- Amputations: The loss of a limb due to trauma or surgical necessity after an accident.
- Organ Damage: Injuries that impair organ function, sometimes requiring transplants or lifelong medical care.
- Severe Fractures and Orthopedic Injuries: Complex fractures that may limit mobility or require repeated surgeries.
- Vision or Hearing Loss: Permanent sensory damage caused by trauma.
The Aftermath of a Catastrophic Injury
The impact of a catastrophic injury extends far beyond the initial medical emergency. Survivors often face:
- Extensive Medical Treatment: Multiple surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and ongoing rehabilitation.
- Permanent Disability: Loss of mobility, independence, or the ability to return to one’s career.
- Emotional Trauma: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and the struggle to adapt to a new way of life.
- Financial Strain: Medical bills, lost income, home modifications, and long-term caregiving costs.
In Marin County, where the cost of living is already high, these financial burdens can overwhelm families quickly. Pursuing a catastrophic injury claim with the help of an experienced lawyer ensures that you seek the compensation needed to cover both current and future expenses.
Don’t settle for less. Fight for full compensation.
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$2,000,000 Truck Accident
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$1,850,000 Pedestrian Accident
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$1,800,000 Motorcycle Accident
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$1,750,000 Motor Vehicle Accident
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$1,495,000 Premises Liability
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$1,410,000 Premises Liability
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$1,300,000 Pedestrian Accident
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$1,000,000 Rollover Accident
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"They held my hand thru the whole thing, answering my silly calls with questions and showing great patience."
I found the Kuvara Law Firm when I did a search for personal injury attorneys. I scanned down the possibilities but their name jumped out at me. I called, sure I didn't have a claim because I've never done this before, but on reviewing my case Mr. Kuvara said I DO have a case and assigned me to the appropriate person to get things started. They were always very friendly and encouraging whenever I contacted them. Colby is an absolute doll! Then when I had my fall and concussion Mr. Kovara referred me to a colleague at another firm that specializes in that type of case. They, too, were good and helpful and full of information I'd never think of! Everything was perfect, they really knew their jobs at both firms and took great care of me. I can't recommend them highly enough and will keep their contact information in my wallet ready to share with all who may ask! Thanks so much, Colby!
- Lynne D.B. -
"They really are a best in class firm who will fight for you."
I would highly recommend Kuvara Law Firm to anyone who has been in an accident. Colby Kuvara was an excellent attorney who went above and beyond in guiding me through the legal process and really advocating for me in a time that was extremely stressful. Her team was very responsive and thorough through the duration of the case.
- Jessica B. -
"Colby was professional, caring and listened carefully to what our son's desired outcomes were."
Our adult son was hit by a car while on vacation in San Rafael CA. We recieved the call the night before Thanksgiving 2022. We flew from MPLS to San Fransisco and got to the hospital where our son was. He was injured badly, after emergency brain surgery he was placed in a medically induced coma he woke up after three day's. We decided as a family to contact an attorney. We contacted Kuvara Law firm and talked with Colby. Colby assured us that the only interest she had was the well being of our son. She went above and beyond to navigate out of state insurance and an entire host of other issues. Our entire family would recomend Kuvara Law firm to anyone looking for representation.
- Mike P. -
"Wish I could give 6-stars."
I had a bad car accident and I had both the pleasure and the best experience with Kuvara Law Firm. Was given excellent top notch service , the firm and its excellent staff went above and beyond the call of duty, I highly recommend. Thank you for everything.
- Brennan C.
How Kuvara Law Firm Can Help
At Kuvara Law Firm, we know that catastrophic injury cases demand careful preparation and aggressive advocacy. Our team works closely with medical experts, economists, and life-care planners to fully evaluate the extent of your losses. We build strong cases to pursue damages such as:
- Current and future medical costs
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Costs of assistive devices, home modifications, or in-home care
By holding negligent parties accountable, we help injury survivors secure the financial resources they need to adapt to their new circumstances and protect their future.
Catastrophic Injury Claim FAQs
How do I know if my injury qualifies as “catastrophic”?
If your injury permanently impacts your ability to work, perform daily activities, or requires long-term medical care, it may be classified as catastrophic. A qualified Marin County catastrophic injury lawyer can assess your case.
How long do I have to file a catastrophic injury claim in California?
In most cases, California law gives you two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury claim. However, exceptions may apply, so contacting a lawyer promptly is crucial.
Who can be held liable for a catastrophic injury?
Liability depends on the circumstances. Defendants may include negligent drivers, property owners, employers, product manufacturers, or healthcare providers.
How much compensation can I recover?
The value of your claim depends on the severity of your injury, your long-term needs, and the level of negligence involved. Catastrophic injury claims typically involve higher settlements or verdicts due to the lifelong impact of the injuries.
Do I need a lawyer for a catastrophic injury claim?
Yes. These claims are complex, involve large sums of money, and often face resistance from insurance companies. Having an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your claim is valued fairly.
Contact Our Marin County Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Today
If you or someone you love has suffered a life-changing injury, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Our legal team at Kuvara Law Firm is here to fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. We understand the challenges ahead and are committed to guiding you every step of the way.
Contact us today at (628) 240-1014 to get started on your claim.
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Past & Future Medical Bills
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Call Kuvara Law Firm (628) 240-1014
We handle all personal injury cases on a contingency basis. We only ask for payment if we are successful in getting you compensation.
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Bringing a Unique Perspective To The Table Meet Founder & Attorney Neal Kuvara
Our personal injury law firm was founded more than 50 years ago by attorney Neal Kuvara. Neal’s experience goes beyond representing injured victims in personal injury claims.
- Neal served as a medic in the Army, and he has a unique understanding of the medical elements that are at play in personal injury cases.
- Neal also worked as an insurance adjuster, so he knows firsthand the tactics insurance companies use.
Our team uses this unique perspective to our clients’ advantage when handling personal injury claims in California.
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¿Cómo Saber Si Usted Tiene Un Caso?
Llámenos al (628) 240-1014 o llene nuestro formulario de revisión de caso. Nuestras oficinas se encuentran en San Rafael, San José, San Francisco, Oakland, Walnut Creek, Sacramento, Redwood City, San Mateo, Newark, Vallejo, Stockton, Fairfield, Santa Rosa, y Pleasanton.