These cases differ from other personal injury claims because the stakes are much higher—long-term care, lost earning potential, and quality of life are all on the line.
Our Bloomington injury lawyer is dedicated to helping victims and their families navigate the legal system and secure the financial compensation they deserve.
Catastrophic injuries are those that result in permanent disabilities or significant impairments. Unlike minor injuries, these conditions often require lifelong medical care, rehabilitation, and personal assistance. Some of the most common catastrophic injuries include:
According to the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center (NSCISC), approximately 18,000 new spinal cord injuries occur in the U.S. each year, and the lifetime costs for a patient with high tetraplegia can exceed $5 million.
These figures highlight the financial burden victims and their families face after a catastrophic injury.
A catastrophic injury does more than cause physical pain—it affects every aspect of life. Victims may be unable to return to work, requiring permanent disability benefits. Families often have to make home modifications, such as wheelchair ramps and specialized medical equipment, to accommodate the injured person’s new reality.
Beyond the financial strain, the emotional toll is significant. Studies show that people who suffer from spinal cord injuries are at a higher risk for depression, with rates up to 37% compared to 5% in the general population (Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine).
This underscores the need for comprehensive compensation that goes beyond medical bills to include emotional distress, lost enjoyment of life, and long-term care.
Indiana law allows catastrophic injury victims to seek compensation when their injuries result from another party’s negligence. Some of the key laws that apply to these cases include:
Under Indiana Code § 34-51-2, the state follows a modified comparative fault rule. This means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages if you are less than 51% responsible. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are awarded $1,000,000 but found to be 20% at fault, you would receive $800,000.
Indiana imposes a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury cases (Indiana Code § 34-11-2-4). This means that victims have two years from the date of their injury to file a lawsuit. If you fail to take legal action within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation.
However, there are exceptions in cases involving minors or when the full extent of the injury isn’t immediately apparent.
Catastrophic injuries often involve multiple parties who may be held accountable. Some of the most common liable parties include:
Our Bloomington catastrophic injury lawyer thoroughly investigates every case to determine who is responsible and to pursue the maximum compensation available.
Victims of catastrophic injuries need substantial financial support to move forward. Our injury attorney in Bloomington aggressively pursues all possible compensation, which may include:
We have successfully represented clients with life-changing injuries and understand the long-term needs of catastrophic injury victims.
Insurance companies try to minimize payouts, but we do not back down. We fight for the compensation our clients deserve through negotiation or trial.
We understand that you are going through one of the most challenging times of your life. Our injury attorney in Bloomington takes a client-focused approach, ensuring you receive the support and guidance you need.
We have helped countless clients in Bloomington and Indiana recover substantial settlements and verdicts. Our success speaks for itself.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury due to someone else’s negligence, do not wait to take legal action. These injuries’ financial, emotional, and physical burdens can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face them alone.
At our injury law firm in Bloomington, we are committed to securing the maximum compensation for our clients. Contact us today for a free consultation—we are ready to fight for you.
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