Florida Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Under Florida law, a “catastrophic injury” is defined as a sudden and permanent impairment. Specific examples provided in the state statute include spinal cord injuries involving severe paralysis of the trunk, an arm, or a leg; amputation of an arm, hand, foot, or leg; certain severe brain or closed head injuries; certain second- or third-degree burns; and other injuries severe enough to entitle a victim to Social Security Disability benefits. For example, the loss of vision or hearing, severe organ damage, facial scarring, occupational illnesses such as mesothelioma, and other types of significant, permanent injuries would likely be considered catastrophic, although they are not specifically included in the definition.

Regardless of the nature of a catastrophic injury, it can come with high medical costs, as well as unanticipated hardships and challenges for the victim. If you suffered a permanent, significant injury due to someone else’s negligence, it is important to seek legal representation from Florida catastrophic injury attorneys who can help you protect your rights and recover the compensation you are entitled to receive.

Nearly any type of accident can result in catastrophic injuries. However, catastrophic accident attorneys know that some incidents are more likely than others to result in significant, permanent impairments for victims. Some of the most common causes of Florida catastrophic injuries include:

• Automobile accidents. Victims injured in car, truck, or motorcycle accidents can find themselves facing a lifetime of recovery. Pedestrians struck by motor vehicles may suffer even more debilitating injuries.
• Bicycle accidents. Cyclists traveling on Florida roadways are exposed to distracted drivers more than anyone else. The inherent risk of cycling, even in designated bike lanes, means that catastrophic injuries are unfortunately all too common among cyclists involved in bicycle accidents with motor vehicles.
• Workplace injuries. Anyone can become injured at work. However, those who work in certain industries (factory or construction workers, for example) may be more likely to suffer catastrophic injuries.
• Medical malpractice. Birth injuries, surgical mistakes, and misdiagnoses or mistreatment can all lead to permanent injuries. Victims have the right to seek compensation for medical errors.
• Defective products. When a product does not operate as intended, people can become seriously injured. Holding product manufacturers accountable for their mistakes can protect others from suffering the same injuries.
• Sporting accidents. People can also suffer severe, life-altering injuries from using malfunctioning sports equipment, or can become seriously injured in sports venues when responsible parties fail to maintain the premises or take reasonable precautions to avoid such injuries.

A common denominator in most catastrophic injuries is negligence. If your catastrophic injury was due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to receive compensation to pay for your accident-related medical expenses, anticipated future medical expenses, lost wages, and intangible losses such as mental anguish, loss of ability to lead a normal life, and pain and suffering. Attorneys for catastrophic injury victims can help you understand your rights, value your claim, and explain your options for pursuing compensation.

Florida catastrophic injury attorneys help clients injured in all types of accidents. The most common catastrophic injuries in Florida include:

• Spinal cord injuries (specifically involving significant paralysis of a limb or of the trunk)
• Amputation of a limb or appendage
• Severe brain injury or a closed-head injury, involving significant communication disturbances, significant sensory/motor disturbances, severe episodic neurological disorders, complex integrated disturbances of the victim’s cerebral function, or similarly severe brain injuries or closed-head injuries
• Second-degree or third-degree burns on at least 25% of the body
• Third-degree burns on 5% or more of the victim’s hands and face
• Total blindness or industrial blindness
• Other severe, permanent injuries that would qualify the victim to receive Social Security Disability (SSI or SSDI) benefits

Unfortunately, catastrophic injuries can happen in the blink of an eye, leaving victims with lifelong injuries and unanticipated financial challenges. Seeking legal advice from experienced catastrophic injury attorneys is the best way to understand your rights and options. Scott Marshall Injury Attorneys is a trusted Florida catastrophic injury law firm. We have helped other victims pursue their rights and obtain full and fair compensation for their injuries. To learn more, schedule your initial consultation with a skilled legal professional today.