Catastrophic injuries are life-altering events with permanent consequences, often including paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, and severe burns. The stakes can be high in these cases, particularly if you are facing emotional distress and high medical bills.
If you or a loved one has suffered a life-changing condition, understanding the process of catastrophic injury trials in San Antonio can help you make informed decisions. Skilled legal representation may assist you in dealing with the aftermath.
Personal injuries are common. While catastrophic injuries are rare, they happen all too often. The most common types of catastrophic injuries include:
Victims of catastrophic injuries may file for an injury claim. The first step of filing these claims is an investigation, during which time a lawyer will gather medical documentation, accident reports, and expert opinions. The lawyer will file a lawsuit in Bexar County District Court within two years from the date of the injury. During pre-trial negotiations, an insurance policy might make an offer. These early offers are often low, and a lawyer may recommend taking a San Antonio catastrophic injury case to trial.
One of the biggest challenges involved in San Antonio catastrophic injury trials rests in proving long-term impact. Expert medical witnesses can be called in to demonstrate the victim’s need for lifelong treatment, adaptive devices, and home modifications. Of course, this also contributes to another challenge, the high costs of litigation.
Of course, victims of these injuries will also be working against defense tactics. Defendants may argue that the victim had a pre-existing condition or minimize future care costs. Additionally, the defense may argue that the victim was partially at fault for their own injuries in a claim of comparative negligence. A catastrophic injury lawyer will fight back against these allegations.
Several types of compensation are available in catastrophic injury verdicts. Economic damages are the most common. Economic damages include medical expenses, lost income, and lost earning capacity. They can be easily accounted for via receipts and bills.
On the other hand, non-economic damages are not as easily accounted for. These damages include emotional distress, lost enjoyment of life, and pain and suffering. These damages do not necessarily come with a price tag. However, an injury victim may still be compensated for them.
A trial lawyer is there to assist you every step of the way, from settlement negotiations to trial preparation. A lawyer can prepare you for deposition and court testimony, connect you with local experts, and produce visual exhibits for trial. Above all, your lawyer supports you and your family during trauma recovery.
San Antonio lawyers are familiar with Bexar County courts, and they understand the local industries with higher risks of catastrophic injuries. You can count on your lawyer to offer personalized, in-person support. Stakes can become high during catastrophic injury trials in San Antonio. Reach out to a lawyer today to begin fighting for your future.