At the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote in Oklahoma City, our skilled legal team could provide the experienced legal representation you need to navigate your case and maximize compensation. Without proper legal counsel, you may be in danger of having your insurance claim denied or settled for less than it is worth. Contact our law office today to schedule a consultation with the firm to get started on your case.

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What are catastrophic injuries?

Many types of injuries are considered catastrophic. These injuries are so severe that the victim may face the future with disabilities or require many months or years to recover to a reasonable state of health. If they were caused by another person's negligence, intentional misconduct, or other wrongdoing, you may have grounds for a claim. One of our personal injury attorneys in Oklahoma City could help improve your chances of obtaining compensation that could help you cope with the consequences of these devastating injuries. At Law Offices of Stipe & Belote, we frequently handle serious injury claims that are related to all types of accidents, including:

  • Car accidents
  • Pedestrian accidents
  • Truck accidents
  • Motorcycle accidents 
  • Bicycle accidents
  • Dog bites
  • Dangerous drugs or defective products
  • Medical malpractice
  • Nursing home abuse

Types of catastrophic injuries in OKC

Catastrophic injuries are a type of injury that results in serious physical damage to the body. In most cases, survivors must deal with permanent consequences, and a full recovery is impossible. These are some of the most common types of catastrophic injuries:

  • Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
  • Amputation injuries
  • Severe, disfiguring burns
  • Loss of hearing
  • Loss of sight
  • Severe organ damage
  • Brain injuries
  • Facial injuries resulting in deformity
  • Neurological damage
  • Nerve damage
  • Mesothelioma and other severe occupational illnesses

If you suffered a permanent or long-lasting injury that substantially impacts your quality of life, it could be classified as a catastrophic injury. Due to their permanent and severe nature, these injuries often result in higher settlements or verdicts since compensation would factor in the lifelong care and assistance these injuries often require.

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Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries

Although compensation for catastrophic injuries essentially covers the same damages provided for in other personal injury claims, the stakes are higher due to the nature of these injuries.

For example, medical expenses in a catastrophic injury case could be substantial since a victim, in this case, would have lifelong costs that could exceed a million dollars.

Compensation could also include the following:

  • Lost wages, including foreseeable lost future income, if you were disabled as a result of the injuries.
  • The immense pain and suffering caused by catastrophic injuries, including psychological trauma and lost quality of life.
  • Out-of-pocket costs, including legal expenses, medical care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and other hard costs.

Reach Out to Our Law Office in Oklahoma City to Get Started on Your Catastrophic Injury Case

At the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote in Oklahoma City, we could provide the legal representation you need to improve your chances of recovering financial damages that could cover the full extent of the injuries and losses you experienced in a serious accident. We welcome you to contact our offices at your earliest convenience to learn how we could help you during a free, no-obligation consultation. Call our catastrophic injury lawyers in OKC today to take the first step toward holding the at-fault party liable for your suffering.

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FAQs

What is considered a catastrophic injury?

What are the common causes of catastrophic injuries?

What legal options are available for individuals who have sustained catastrophic injuries?

What types of damages can be pursued in a catastrophic injury case?

How does the severity of a catastrophic injury impact the legal process?

What role does insurance coverage play in catastrophic injury claims?

How does the legal process typically unfold for catastrophic injury claims?

What is the potential timeline for resolving a catastrophic injury legal claim?

What distinguishes a proficient attorney in handling catastrophic injury claims?

What is considered a catastrophic injury?

Catastrophic injuries are severe and often life-altering injuries that result in long-term or permanent disabilities. These injuries can include spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, severe burns, and other debilitating conditions that significantly impact an individual's quality of life and ability to function.

What are the common causes of catastrophic injuries?

Catastrophic injuries can result from various causes, including motor vehicle accidents, workplace accidents, medical malpractice, sports-related incidents, defective products, and acts of violence. Each of these causes can lead to devastating and life-changing injuries with long-term consequences.

What legal options are available for individuals who have sustained catastrophic injuries?

Individuals who have sustained catastrophic injuries may have legal options to seek compensation for their damages. This can include filing personal injury claims, pursuing workers' compensation benefits, and exploring the possibility of a medical malpractice lawsuit, depending on the injury's circumstances.

What types of damages can be pursued in a catastrophic injury case?

In a catastrophic injury case, various damages can be pursued, including medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost income, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and long-term care needs.

How does the severity of a catastrophic injury impact the legal process?

The severity of a catastrophic injury can significantly impact the legal process, as it may necessitate extensive medical evidence, expert testimony, and a thorough evaluation of the long-term impact on the individual's life. This often requires a comprehensive approach to building a solid case and advocating for the full extent of the damages suffered.

What role does insurance coverage play in catastrophic injury claims?

Insurance coverage plays a critical role in catastrophic injury claims, as it can provide financial protection for individuals who have sustained life-altering injuries. Understanding the complexities of insurance coverage, including the potential for long-term care benefits and disability coverage, is essential for maximizing the benefits available to the injured party.

How does the legal process typically unfold for catastrophic injury claims?

The legal process for catastrophic injury claims often involves conducting a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the injury, including gathering evidence, assessing liability, and determining the full extent of the damages. Subsequently, negotiations with insurance companies or at-fault parties may occur to reach a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to litigation, potentially culminating in a trial to resolve the matter.

What is the potential timeline for resolving a catastrophic injury legal claim?

The timeline for resolving a catastrophic injury legal claim can vary based on factors such as the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the willingness of the involved parties to engage in negotiations. While some cases may be resolved through settlement negotiations within a few months, others may require more time, particularly if litigation becomes necessary.

What distinguishes a proficient attorney in handling catastrophic injury claims?

From conducting thorough investigations to advocating for the injured party's rights, an experienced catastrophic injury attorney can provide invaluable support and guidance throughout the legal process, ultimately striving to secure a favorable outcome for the injured individual and their family. At Stipe & Belote Personal Injury Law, we’re proud to have a legacy of achievement guiding our clients through these catastrophic injury cases. We are standing by to help you navigate this difficult time. Contact us today to get started with a consultation.

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