When a catastrophic injury strikes in Mission Viejo, California, it’s critical to have experienced legal representation to guide you through this challenging time. Catastrophic injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, severe burns, and amputations, can drastically change your life.
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we're here to provide the compassionate support and aggressive legal advocacy. With over 36 years of experience, we’re committed to holding the responsible parties accountable and working to protect your rights and best interests.
A Compassionate Law Firm
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we recognize the immense impact a catastrophic injury can have on you. Whether it’s the result of an accident, medical negligence, or another form of wrongdoing, these injuries can be physically, emotionally, and financially devastating. That’s why we’re dedicated to advocating for your rights and helping you rebuild your future.
We understand that behind each injury is a person facing uncertainty and hardship, not just a legal claim. Our firm combines deep compassion with determined legal strategies to help make sure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions to the fullest extent possible, and that your ongoing needs—both immediate and long-term—are addressed.
By choosing us, you gain a trusted partner who'll handle every aspect of your case, from investigation to negotiation, while you focus on your recovery. We’ll be with you every step of the way, providing the support and guidance you need during this challenging time. Our commitment is to protect your rights and fight relentlessly for your compensation.
Strong Legal Advice
What Is Considered a Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury refers to a severe injury that results in permanent or long-term disability, significantly affecting a person's ability to live independently or perform basic daily tasks.
Common examples include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, amputations, severe burns, and other injuries that result in permanent disfigurement or loss of function.
How Does Personal Injury Law Apply to Catastrophic Injuries?
Personal injury law allows those who've been injured due to someone else's negligence or wrongful actions to seek compensation for their damages. In the case of catastrophic injuries, this compensation typically covers medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and long-term care needs.
Because these injuries often involve lifelong consequences, the compensation sought in catastrophic injury cases is generally higher than in less severe injury cases.
How Do I Prove Liability in a Catastrophic Injury Case?
Proving liability in a catastrophic injury case requires demonstrating that the injury was caused by the negligence or wrongful actions of another party. This may involve gathering evidence such as:
Accident reports (police reports, workplace accident reports): Accident reports, such as police reports or workplace accident records, provide an official account of the incident, including the circumstances and contributing factors, which can be crucial in establishing liability.
Witness statements: Statements from witnesses who saw the accident or event unfold can provide firsthand accounts that support your version of events and help establish fault.
Professional testimony (from medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, etc.): Professional testimony from medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, or other relevant professionals can help clarify the severity of the injury, the cause of the accident, and the long-term consequences of the injury.
Medical records documenting the injury and its long-term impact: Medical records are essential in documenting the extent of your injuries, the treatments you've received, and the long-term impact the injury may have on your health and quality of life.
Our experienced Mission Viejo catastrophic injury lawyer can help gather this evidence, evaluate the strength of your case, and present it in a way that maximizes your chances of success.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive for a Catastrophic Injury?
Victims of catastrophic injuries can seek compensation for a wide range of damages, including:
Medical expenses (past, present, and future)
Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
Pain and suffering (both physical and emotional)
Rehabilitation and therapy costs
Prosthetics and assistive devices (if applicable)
Loss of enjoyment of life (the impact the injury has on daily activities and quality of life)
Punitive damages (in cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm)
Our Mission Viejo catastrophic injury lawyer will assess your unique situation and work to make sure that all your immediate and future needs are considered when determining the compensation you should seek.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim for a Catastrophic Injury?
In California, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the injury. However, this time frame can vary depending on the circumstances, such as if the injury wasn't immediately apparent or if it was the result of medical malpractice.
If you miss the statute of limitations, you may lose your right to file a claim, so it’s important to consult with a Mission Viejo catastrophic injury lawyer as soon as possible to help make sure your rights are protected.
Will My Catastrophic Injury Case Go to Trial?
Not all catastrophic injury cases go to trial. Many cases are settled out of court through negotiations with the responsible party's insurance company.
However, if a fair settlement can't be reached, your Mission Viejo catastrophic injury lawyer may advise pursuing litigation. The decision to settle or go to trial depends on the specifics of your case, including the strength of the evidence, the willingness of the parties to negotiate, and the potential for a fair settlement.
Can I Still File a Claim If I Was Partially at Fault for the Injury?
California follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still file a claim and receive compensation even if you were partially at fault for the accident or injury.
However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you're found to be 30% at fault, your total damages award will be reduced by 30%. A Mission Viejo catastrophic injury lawyer can help work through these complicated issues and fight for fair compensation.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Catastrophic Injury Case?
The length of time it takes to resolve a catastrophic injury case can vary significantly depending on the intricacy of the case, the severity of the injury, and whether the case is settled or goes to trial.
While some cases may be resolved in a few months, others—especially those that require extensive medical evaluation or professional testimony—may take a year or more. An experienced Mission Viejo catastrophic injury lawyer may provide an estimated timeline based on the specific facts of your case.
What Should I Do Immediately After Suffering a Catastrophic Injury?
If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, the first step is to seek immediate medical attention. Make sure that your injuries are properly treated and documented by healthcare professionals.
Next, try to gather as much evidence as possible, such as accident reports, witness contact information, and photos of the scene or injuries. Finally, contact a catastrophic injury lawyer in Mission Viejo at the Law Offices of Stevem Zwick to help guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and start building your case.
If you have more questions or are unsure of your next steps after suffering a catastrophic injury, it’s important to consult with our experienced Mission Viejo catastrophic injury lawyer. We can provide the guidance and legal experience you need to work through the challenges of your case and pursue compensation.
Contact a Mission Viejo Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Today
When you've suffered a catastrophic injury due to someone else's negligence, it's in your best interest to reach out to an experienced Mission Viejo catastrophic injury attorney. Reach out to the Law Offices of Steven Zwick today to schedule a consultation.