512-520-8100

Available 24/7 For Help

Catastrophic Injury Attorneys In Austin

Austin Texas Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Serious Solutions for Serious Catastrophic Injury Claims in Texas

When life throws the unexpected at you, causing severe, life-altering injuries, you need more than just medical aid. You need a strong legal ally who can champion your cause, ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve. At Chris Morrow Law, PLLC, we stand ready to be that ally for you.

Our firm is recognized throughout Austin, TX, for our tireless commitment to fighting for the rights of our clients. With over two decades of legal experience under our belt, we have a proven track record in handling personal injury cases, particularly those involving catastrophic injuries.

Catastrophic injuries are severe injuries that result in long-term, often permanent, disability or disfigurement. They are injuries that impact not just your health, but also your ability to work, your financial stability, and your quality of life. Examples of catastrophic injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, amputations, and multiple fractures. These injuries can occur as a result of various incidents such as car accidents, motorcycle accidents, or workplace accidents.

The role of Austin personal injury attorneys in such cases is crucial. An experienced personal injury attorney understands the complex legal and medical issues involved in catastrophic injury cases. They work tirelessly to gather the necessary evidence, consult with medical experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you are entitled to.

Navigating the aftermath of a catastrophic injury can be challenging and stressful. But with Chris Morrow Law, PLLC on your side, you can focus on your recovery while we focus on recovering the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury due to someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t have to bear the financial burden on top of the physical and emotional pain you’re already dealing with. At Chris Morrow Law, PLLC, we work on a contingency fee basis which means you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Contact us today at 512-520-8100 for a free consultation with an experienced Austin injury lawyer.

Call Chris Morrow today for dedicated service and professional experience at 512-520-8100 or contact us online. Our Austin catastrophic injury lawyer offers free consultations and around-the-clock accessibility.

What Makes an Injury Catastrophic?

When we discuss catastrophic injuries, we’re referring to severe, life-altering injuries that significantly impede an individual’s ability to lead a normal life. Unlike other injuries that people fully recover from with time and medical treatment, catastrophic injuries typically have long-lasting or permanent effects. They often lead to significant disability or disfigurement, impacting an individual’s capacity to work, carry out daily tasks, and enjoy life as they used to.

Types of Catastrophic Injuries

There’s a wide range of injuries that can be classified as catastrophic, given the profound impact they have on the victims’ lives. These include but are not limited to:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) – These are injuries to the brain caused by an external force. TBIs can lead to physical and cognitive impairments, affecting speech, memory, motor skills, and even personality.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries Damage to any part of the spinal cord can result in permanent changes in strength, sensation, and other body functions below the site of the injury, often causing paralysis.
  • Severe Burns Third-degree burns or worse can cause significant damage to the skin and underlying tissues, leading to scarring, disfigurement, and functional impairments.
  • Multiple Bone Fractures – Multiple fractures can lead to long-term disability, especially if they involve complex joints or the spine.
  • Amputations – The loss of a limb or a part of a limb can have a profound effect on a person’s ability to perform daily tasks and enjoy recreational activities.

These catastrophic injuries often result from serious accidents like motor vehicle collisions, workplace accidents, falls, sports accidents, and acts of violence. For instance, car accidents and motorcycle accidents frequently lead to catastrophic injuries given their high-impact nature.

Man lays, strapped in a stretcher as he is pulled into an ambulance by EMT. Contact our catastrophic injury lawyers for a strong legal representative in Austin, TX if you’ve been severely injured in an accident.

Common Types of Accidents Can Lead to a Personal Injury Claim?

Catastrophic injuries can result from a wide variety of accidents, many of which are unfortunately common. Here are several examples of accidents that often form the basis of a catastrophic injury claim:

  • Motor Vehicle Accidents Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, trucks, bicycles, and pedestrians are one of the most common causes of catastrophic injuries. These can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, and amputations.
  • Workplace Accidents – Certain professions, especially those in the construction, manufacturing, and transportation industries, carry a higher risk of catastrophic injuries. These can occur due to machinery malfunctions, falls from height, or exposure to harmful substances.
  • Slip and Fall Accidents – Slip and fall incidents can lead to serious injuries, especially in older adults. These accidents can occur due to wet floors, uneven surfaces, poor lighting, or a lack of appropriate handrails.
  • Product Liability Defective or poorly designed products can cause severe harm to consumers. This can include everything from faulty vehicle parts leading to a car accident, to dangerous pharmaceutical drugs causing severe health complications.
  • Recreational and Sports Accidents – Activities such as extreme sports, boating, or even just using a public swimming pool can sometimes lead to catastrophic injuries due to equipment failure or insufficient safety measures.
  • Violent Acts – Incidents involving physical violence or the use of weapons can also lead to catastrophic injuries. In such cases, the perpetrator can be held legally responsible for the victim’s injuries.

No matter the nature of the accident, you have a right to seek compensation if you or a loved one has sustained a catastrophic injury due to someone else’s negligence.

How Spinal Cord Injuries Lead to Paralysis

A spinal cord injury refers to damage inflicted on the vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and nerves. When the vertebrae are shattered and the nerves are exposed, injuries can lead to permanent changes in a person’s physical sensations or movement below the site of injury. Spinal cord injuries are typically classified as complete when a victim can’t feel or move their body below the injury and incomplete when they still have some function. When the nerves are damaged, a person can be permanently paralyzed.

There are different kinds of paralysis that depend on where the injury lies on the spinal cord:

  • Paraplegia involves paralysis that affects the lower half of the body, including the legs and pelvic organs.
  • Quadriplegia impacts all limbs, including the arms, hands, legs, and pelvic organs.
  • Paralysis will confine individuals to wheelchairs and requires medical equipment like lifts, ramps, and other types of retrofitting in the home to help the victim move around.

How An Austin Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Can Help

The more severe the injuries a person suffers in an accident, the more damages they’ll likely accrue, from medical expenses such as hospital bills to lost wages from missing work. As a result, catastrophic injury claims tend to hold more value than minor injury claims, though each case will vary. Because so much is at stake in a serious injury claim, it’s important that you hire Texas catastrophic injury lawyers specialized in the incident, like an auto accident attorney in Austin, who understands the path that lies ahead. Chris Morrow knows that you must consider not just your emergency medical expenses, but your future costs as well. He can make sure your future is secure and that you don’t have to spend a dime after a catastrophic injury has left you permanently debilitated.

What to Do After an Accident Involving Catastrophic Injury?

Experiencing a catastrophic injury due to a car accident is an overwhelming and life-altering event. In such instances, the most crucial thing is to take immediate steps that not only ensure your health and safety but also protect your legal rights. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate this challenging situation:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

In the wake of an accident, it’s vital to get immediate medical help. This applies even if you believe your injuries aren’t severe, as some catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately evident. Timely medical intervention can save lives and prevent further complications.

Contact the Police

Notify the police as soon as possible. They will document the scene and produce an accident report, providing an impartial record of events which can be crucial evidence if you choose to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.

Gather Evidence

If you’re physically able, collect as much evidence from the accident scene as possible. This might include photographs or videos of the scene, witness details, and the other party’s insurance and contact information.

Don’t Admit Fault

After the accident, you may be in shock and confused. It’s important to avoid admitting responsibility for the accident, as doing so could potentially damage any future legal claims. Limit your discussion about the accident to the police and your attorney.

Reach out to Chris Morrow Law, PLLC

Navigating the aftermath of a catastrophic injury can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. A reputable law firm like Chris Morrow Law, PLLC can provide the guidance and support you need. With experience in dealing with catastrophic injuries, our team is adept at dealing with insurance companies, gathering necessary evidence, and advocating fiercely for your rights.

Keep Records

Maintain a thorough record of all medical treatments, bills, and any other accident-related expenses. This evidence can be vital when establishing the financial impact of the accident.

Inform your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the accident. However, it’s advisable to discuss the situation with your attorney before giving a formal statement to the insurance company.

What is Negligence?

Negligence is a legal concept that is central to most personal injury and catastrophic injury claims. It refers to a failure to behave with the level of care that someone of ordinary prudence would have exercised under the same circumstances.

In the realm of personal injury law, proving negligence is vital for injured victims to successfully recover compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney has the knowledge and skills to effectively establish negligence and help clients pursue the compensation they deserve.

Negligence involves four elements that a plaintiff (the injured party) must prove in a lawsuit:

  • Duty of Care – This refers to the responsibility one person or party has to avoid causing harm to another. For example, drivers have a duty of care to other road users to operate their vehicles safely and obey traffic laws.
  • Breach of Duty – A breach occurs when the person or party does not uphold their duty of care. This could involve actions or omissions. For example, if a driver is speeding or a doctor fails to diagnose a condition properly, they have breached their duty of care.
  • Causation – There must be a direct link between the breach of duty and the injuries sustained. The plaintiff must show that their injuries would not have occurred if not for the defendant’s (the alleged wrongdoer’s) breach of duty.
  • Damages – The plaintiff must demonstrate that they suffered harm as a result of the breach. This harm can be physical, but it can also include emotional trauma, property damage, or financial loss.

Claiming Damages in an Austin Catastrophic Injury Case

When you suffer a catastrophic injury due to another party’s negligence or wrongful act, you have the legal right to seek compensation for the damages you have incurred. These damages can be divided into three main categories: economic, non-economic, and punitive.

Economic Damages

Economic damages, also known as compensatory or special damages, are the out-of-pocket expenses you have incurred as a direct result of your injuries. These damages are typically easier to calculate because they involve actual monetary losses. They include:

  • Medical Expenses – These are the costs of medical care related to your catastrophic injury. It includes hospital bills, medication costs, surgery costs, physical therapy costs, and any ongoing or future medical care needed as a result of your injury.
  • Lost Wages and Loss of Earning Capacity – If your injury has forced you to miss work, you can seek compensation for your lost income during your recovery period. If your injury prevents you from returning to work or reduces your ability to earn a living in the future, you can also claim compensation for loss of earning capacity.
  • Property Damage – If the incident that led to your catastrophic injury also resulted in damage to your property (for example, in a car or motorcycle accident), you can claim compensation for repair or replacement costs.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages, also known as general damages, compensate you for the non-financial impacts of your injury. Because these impacts are often subjective and differ from person to person, they can be more difficult to calculate. Non-economic damages can include:

  • Pain and Suffering – This encompasses the physical pain and emotional distress you have experienced as a result of your catastrophic injury.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life – If your injury prevents you from participating in activities or hobbies you once enjoyed, you can seek compensation for this loss.
  • Loss of Consortium – If your injury has adversely affected your relationship with your spouse or family, you may be entitled to compensation for loss of companionship or loss of consortium.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages, also known as exemplary damages, are not awarded in every case. They are intended to punish the at-fault party for particularly egregious or reckless behavior and to deter others from engaging in similar conduct.

Understanding the Personal Injury Claim Process

Dealing with a catastrophic injury can be an overwhelming and life-altering experience. Navigating the personal injury claim process while grappling with such a traumatic event can add to the stress. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the steps involved in the claim process and the role that insurance companies and personal injury attorneys play.

The personal injury claim process typically involves the following steps:

  • Accident and Injury – The first step in any personal injury case is the occurrence of an accident and the resulting injuries.
  • Medical Attention – Seek immediate medical treatment following the accident. Not only is this critical for your health, but it also creates a medical record that serves as crucial evidence for your personal injury claim.
  • Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney – Engaging a personal injury attorney early in the process can be a game-changer. They can guide you through the complex legal proceedings and handle negotiations with insurance companies on your behalf.
  • Investigation and Evidence Collection – Your attorney will investigate the incident, gather evidence, and identify the at-fault parties. They will also liaise with medical experts to understand the extent and impact of your injuries.
  • Negotiation with Insurance Companies – Once the evidence is gathered, your attorney will negotiate with the insurance company to reach a settlement that adequately compensates you for your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future medical care.
  • Filing a Lawsuit – If negotiations fail, your attorney will file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party, and the case may go to trial.

Role of Insurance Companies in Personal Injury Claims

Insurance companies play a significant role in personal injury cases. The at-fault party’s insurance company is typically responsible for compensating the victim for their injuries. However, remember that insurance companies are for-profit businesses. Their goal is to minimize the amount they pay in settlements. An experienced Austin personal injury attorney can level the playing field, aggressively negotiating with the insurance company to seek the compensation you deserve.

Potential Challenges Faced by Injured Victims

The personal injury claim process can be fraught with challenges. Insurance companies might deny the claim or offer a lowball settlement. They might argue that the victim shared some responsibility for the accident or that their injuries are not as severe as claimed.

The complexity of legal procedures, the requirement for detailed evidence, and the stress of dealing with insurance adjusters can make the process daunting for injured victims. This is where having an experienced Austin personal injury lawyer on your side can make a significant difference. They can navigate these hurdles, advocate for your rights, and strive to secure the maximum possible compensation for your catastrophic injuries.

Why Choose Chris Morrow Law, PLLC as Your Austin Serious Injury Lawyer

Handling a catastrophic injury claim isn’t an easy task. It requires a deep understanding of personal injury law, skills in negotiation, and a tenacious spirit to fight for the rights of injured victims. At Chris Morrow Law, PLLC, you’ll find a law firm that combines these attributes with a compassionate approach to ensure you get the best representation possible.

The Firm’s Experience in Handling Catastrophic Injury Cases

Chris Morrow has been defending the rights of injured victims for over 25 years. His experience in Austin personal injury cases, specifically those involving catastrophic injuries, is extensive. Over the years, Chris has seen the devastating impact such injuries can have on victims and their families. This understanding drives his commitment to fight tirelessly to ensure his clients receive the compensation they deserve. From car and motorcycle accidents to workplace injuries, Chris Morrow Law, PLLC has handled it all.

Free Consultation Offered by Chris Morrow Law, PLLC

Understanding the nuances of your case and the path to recovery can be daunting. This is why Chris Morrow Law, PLLC offers free consultations. This allows you to discuss your case, understand your legal rights, and explore potential strategies without any financial obligation. With their Austin personal injury lawyers, you’ll get an honest and straightforward evaluation of your case.

Understanding the Contingency Fee Basis

At Chris Morrow Law, PLLC, we believe that everyone deserves high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial circumstances. This is why we work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you won’t pay anything unless we win your case. We will bear the upfront costs of pursuing the claim, from investigation to court fees. Only when we secure compensation for you will we deduct a pre-agreed percentage as our fee. This arrangement ensures that you can focus on your recovery while we focus on winning your case.

Catastrophic Injury FAQs

How can a personal injury law firm help if the responsible party denies liability?

If the party responsible for the injury denies liability, a personal injury law firm can help by gathering and presenting evidence to establish their negligence. This can include accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and expert testimonies. The firm can also handle all communication and negotiations with the other party’s insurance company or legal team to ensure the injured person’s rights are protected.

What factors can influence the amount of compensation in a personal injury case?

Several factors can influence the amount of compensation in a personal injury case. These include the severity of the injury, the impact of the injury on the victim’s life, the cost of medical treatment, whether the injury caused any permanent disability, lost wages, and the victim’s pain and suffering. A personal injury law firm can help determine the potential value of a claim based on these factors.

How long does a catastrophic injury case take?

The duration of a catastrophic injury case can vary widely depending on the specifics of the case. Factors that can impact the timeline include the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, the amount of negotiation required with insurance companies, and whether the case goes to trial. While some cases may be resolved in a few months, others could take several years. An experienced personal injury attorney can provide a more personalized timeline based on your individual case.

How long do I have to file a personal injury lawsuit in Texas?

Under Texas law, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. This is known as the statute of limitations. There are certain exceptions to this rule that may extend or shorten the timeframe, so it’s important to consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss your chance to seek compensation.

Will my case go to trial?

While it’s possible that a personal injury case could go to trial, the majority are settled out of court. A settlement can be a quicker and less stressful resolution, but it’s important to have an attorney who is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Can I pursue compensation without an attorney?

While it’s technically possible to pursue a personal injury claim without an attorney, it’s generally not recommended, especially in cases involving catastrophic injuries. Navigating the legal process can be complex and time-consuming, and there’s a risk you may not get the full amount of compensation you’re entitled to. Having an experienced attorney on your side can help ensure your rights are protected and increase your chances of a successful outcome.

If I was partially at fault for the accident, can I still claim compensation?

Yes, Texas operates under a modified comparative fault system. This means you can still recover compensation if you were partially at fault for the accident, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. However, if you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you won’t be able to recover compensation. It’s important to consult with an attorney to understand how this rule could impact your case.

Taking Charge of Your Recovery: Your Next Steps

In Austin, personal injury attorneys are not in short supply, but when it comes to catastrophic injuries, you need the best. You need someone who understands the complexities of such cases, has the experience to deal with insurance companies, and has the tenacity to take the case to trial if necessary. You need an attorney like Chris Morrow, who is dedicated to fighting for the rights of injured victims and has the track record to prove it.

If you or a loved one have suffered a catastrophic injury, the first step toward justice is to understand your rights. A consultation with an experienced Austin catastrophic injury lawyer can provide you with a clearer picture of the personal injury claim process and what you may be entitled to recover.

Don’t let the fear of legal processes or financial constraints keep you from seeking justice. Remember, most personal injury lawsuits are handled on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win your case.

As an Austin serious injury attorney, Chris Morrow’s mission is to help catastrophic injury victims seek justice and recover compensation for their losses. He is dedicated to providing personalized attention to each case, ensuring that every client’s voice is heard, and their rights are protected.

Call 512-520-8100 now to schedule your free consultation with an Austin catastrophic injury attorney.

Call our catastrophic injury attorney in Austin today for a free case evaluation in English or Spanish at 512-520-8100.

Dangers of Traumatic Brain Injuries

In the realm of personal injury law, head and brain injuries are classified as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) when they are caused by a violent jolt, blow, or penetration to the head. These injuries commonly occur in car accidents, slip and fall accidents, and pedestrian accidents. Though some TBIs are temporary, others are serious and can lead to long-term complications.

If left untreated, TBIs can worsen and evolve into physical and cognitive complications that can’t be recovered from. Some of the dangers of these brain injuries include:

  • Falling into a coma or vegetative state
  • Seizures
  • Blood vessel damage
  • Loss of memory
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Communication issues, such as difficulty speaking or writing
  • Behavioral changes like sudden aggression or risky behavior
  • Emotional issues like depression, insomnia, lack of empathy, and anxiety
  • Sensory problems like impaired coordination or dizziness

Some TBI victims initially recover, only to develop brain diseases over time like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia pugilistica. Though the relationship between brain injuries and diseases is still ongoing, there’s enough research to suggest that the two are linked.

If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, our catastrophic injury lawyers in Austin can help.

The Four Main Types of Traumatic Brain Injuries

Traumatic injuries are often categorized by type and severity.

There are four main types of traumatic brain injuries, including:

  • Concussions: Concussions are considered to be minor (but serious) brain injuries caused by shaking, impact, or sudden changes in movement. These types of injuries are considered more severe if more than one occurs over time.
  • Contusions: This type of traumatic brain injury is a bruise of the brain tissue, caused by broken or leaking blood vessels. These injuries can range from very minor to extremely severe.
  • Penetrating injuries: Penetrating brain injuries are caused by objects that penetrate the skull. This type of TBI can injure a small, concentrated or large part of the brain, depending on the specific situation.
  • Anoxic brain injuries: When the brain does not receive enough oxygen, an anoxic brain injury can occur. The brain might not receive oxygen due to a stroke, heart attack, carbon monoxide poisoning, drowning accident, or other serious trauma. The injury to the brain will occur after 4-5 minutes without oxygen.

Additional types of traumatic brain injuries include hypoxic brain injuries, second impact syndrome, and diffuse axonal injuries. If you or someone you love has experienced a traumatic brain injury, turn to Chris Morrow Law, PLLC for the support and guidance you deserve.

Speak with Chris Morrow Today

Free & Confidential Consultation
Name

Practice Areas

Car Accidents

Car Accidents

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle Accidents

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian Accidents

Premises Liability

Premises Liability

Product Liability

Product Liability

Truck Accidents

Truck Accidents

Work Injuries

Work Injuries

Wrongful Death

Wrongful Death

Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle Accidents

Personal Injury

Personal Injury

Catastrophic Injury

Catastrophic Injury

Testimonials

© 2024 Chris Morrow Law, PLLC All rights reserved.

Disclaimer | Site Map | Privacy Policy

Growth Lab Seo

Skip to content