While some involved in an accident are fortunate enough to sustain only minor injuries, that is not always the case. In some instances, an incident may result in severe, even permanent injuries for the parties involved.
If you or a loved one were injured to such a degree, you should consult with a Normal catastrophic injury lawyer. After enduring such a traumatic event, you likely have undergone medical procedures, rehabilitation, and have required time off work. An experienced personal injury attorney could pursue financial compensation for these and other losses. With the help of a practiced lawyer, you may be able to achieve a more favorable resolution.
What is a Catastrophic Injury?
Illinois has no exact definition for a catastrophic accident, but it is commonly considered to be an incident that leaves the individual with permanent lifelong damage. Some examples of catastrophic injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe burns
- Bone fractures
- Accidental amputation or dismemberment
- Crushing injuries
- Paralysis
In Normal, a committed attorney could seek compensation on behalf of the severely injured claimant. By identifying the full extent of their damages, a lawyer could calculate an acceptable recovery to adequately help a plaintiff.
Statute of Limitations in Normal
While a catastrophic injury may be more severe than other accidents, a Normal attorney must file suit on behalf of a plaintiff under the same statute of limitations as minor personal injury claims. Under 735 Illinois Compiled Statutes §5/13-20, a plaintiff has two years from the date of their injury to file a claim.
If a lawsuit were to be filed after this statutory period expired, the defendant could raise the issue, and the court will likely permanently dismiss the claim.
Non-Economic Damages for Severe Harm
While most plaintiffs are aware that they can seek damages for their out-of-pocket expenses related to the incident, they may not know is that they can pursue financial compensation for their psychological and emotional trauma as well. Non-economic damages are defined under 735 I.L.C.S. §5/2-1115.2 as intangible harms such as pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, loss of consortium, and loss of community.
Since a catastrophic injury can lead to permanent damage such as paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, and amputations, a plaintiff with this type of harm may be more likely than others to suffer very serious non-economic losses. A Normal attorney could help a plaintiff define the severity and extent of their catastrophic injury and determine how much to pursue financially and help maximize the victim’s recovery.
Speak with a Normal Catastrophic Injury Attorney Immediately
By the very nature of a catastrophic injury, you are likely facing ongoing physical and psychological trauma from your accident. If you believe the careless actions of another may have caused great harm to you or a loved one, you should contact a Normal catastrophic injury lawyer today.
A skilled attorney could help you pursue recovery for economic and non-economic losses. In addition, a compassionate lawyer could advocate on your behalf to seek a favorable resolution to your case and hold the responsible party accountable. To learn more, reach out to today. There is no charge for an initial consultation.
