We fight for those whose lives have been changed by catastrophic injuries—protecting your rights, your future, and your peace of mind.
California is home to diverse communities, vibrant city life, and breathtaking landscapes, but accidents can happen anywhere, even in a place as dynamic as Los Angeles. When they do, the results can be devastating. Catastrophic injuries—often caused by car collisions, workplace hazards, or medical negligence—can leave victims facing not just physical pain, but emotional trauma and long-term financial strain.
These types of injuries often require months or even years of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and personal care. The legal claims that follow are rarely simple. Victims and their families may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost income, future care needs, and emotional suffering, but navigating that process takes experienced legal guidance.
If you or someone you love has suffered a life-changing injury, understanding your legal rights is essential. This guide explains the most common types of catastrophic injury claims in California, outlines the types of compensation that may be available, and breaks down the key steps in taking legal action. With the correct information—and the catastrophic injury lawyer in Los Angeles—you can protect your future and begin the path toward recovery.
Catastrophic injuries often have lasting, life-changing effects, leaving many victims with permanent disabilities or requiring continuous medical care. In California, thousands of people each year face these devastating outcomes due to accidents, on-the-job injuries, or negligence.
Among the most serious cases are traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and severe burns—all of which demand intensive treatment and long-term support. The financial impact can be just as severe, with families often struggling to manage the high costs of care, lost wages, and ongoing rehabilitation.
Source: TIMS
Some injuries are so severe that they permanently alter the course of a person’s life. These are known as catastrophic injuries—severe conditions that often lead to lasting disability, disfigurement, or a significant loss in quality of life. Victims may no longer be able to work, care for themselves, or enjoy the independence they once had.
Common examples include spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, severe burns, and internal organ damage. Due to their long-term consequences, California law acknowledges the need for increased compensation in these cases to help cover medical expenses, lost income, and future care.
Catastrophic injuries vary widely in type and severity, often leading to permanent disabilities that alter a person’s quality of life. Some of the most common include:
Brain injuries can vary in severity, from concussions to profound trauma that disrupts memory, behavior, and motor skills. Many individuals with TBIs face lifelong challenges, including cognitive decline and limited independence, often requiring ongoing therapy and support.
Injuries to the spinal cord can lead to partial or total paralysis, affecting a person’s mobility and autonomy. Wheelchairs, in-home care, and medical equipment may become daily necessities, while complications like chronic pain or loss of organ control can further impact quality of life.
Major burn injuries—especially third-degree burns—frequently cause permanent damage to nerves and skin. Recovery can involve painful procedures such as skin grafts and reconstructive surgery, along with long-term emotional distress related to scarring and body image.
The loss of a limb drastically changes a person’s day-to-day life. While prosthetics can improve mobility, they are costly and require specialized care. Amputees may also experience phantom limb pain, which can be physically and emotionally taxing.
Severe bone breaks or crush injuries often result in lengthy recoveries and repeated surgeries. These injuries can damage soft tissue and nerves, sometimes leading to lasting disability or further complications, including infection or amputation.
Catastrophic injuries can happen in many different situations—some caused by negligence, others by unpredictable events. In California, the following scenarios are among the most common causes:
Car, motorcycle, and truck crashes are a leading cause of catastrophic injuries. High-speed impacts, rollovers, and head-on accidents often result in traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and limb loss, leaving victims with long-term medical needs.
Jobs in construction, manufacturing, and other high-risk industries expose workers to serious dangers. Falls from heights, heavy machinery accidents, and exposure to harmful substances can result in life-altering injuries that may end a person’s career permanently.
Not all falls are minor. When someone falls from an elevated surface or hits their head, the result can be severe, especially for older adults. These accidents can lead to brain trauma, spinal cord injuries, or complex fractures that require months of recovery.
Mistakes made by healthcare professionals—whether during surgery, diagnosis, or childbirth—can have devastating effects. Patients may be left with permanent disabilities or chronic conditions that alter their quality of life and require long-term care.
Assaults involving firearms, knives, or blunt force can cause serious injuries like paralysis, brain damage, or amputation. Beyond the physical impact, survivors often face psychological trauma that requires years of support and rehabilitation.
A catastrophic injury doesn’t just affect the person hurt—it reshapes the lives of everyone around them. The aftermath often brings a wide range of physical, emotional, and financial challenges:
Many individuals live with lasting pain, limited mobility, or permanent disability. Even with treatment, some never fully regain independence or function.
Life after a serious injury can be emotionally overwhelming. It’s common to experience depression, anxiety, or PTSD while adjusting to a new reality.
The cost of care adds up quickly—hospital bills, rehabilitation, lost income, and home modifications can put a significant strain on a family’s budget.
Spouses, parents, or children often become caregivers, balancing their own lives while supporting a loved one’s recovery. Over time, the stress can impact relationships and overall family well-being.
The cost of a catastrophic injury can be overwhelming, not just in the short term, but often for life. Victims and their families frequently face the following major expenses:
From surgeries to ICU stays and critical care, the immediate medical response alone can total hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Recovery often involves months or years of physical, occupational, or speech therapy to regain function and adjust to new physical limitations.
Many individuals require wheelchairs, prosthetics, or adaptive devices, as well as costly home modifications such as ramps, stair lifts, or accessible bathrooms.
Some people can’t return to their previous jobs—or to work at all—resulting in long-term income loss or the need to apply for disability support.
Chronic pain, recurring surgeries, and specialist care don’t end after initial treatment. Many victims require lifelong medication and routine follow-ups.
Catastrophic injuries often require more than just initial treatment—they call for long-term care and significant lifestyle changes. Some of the most essential support services include:
For individuals with significant limitations, daily care from a nurse or caregiver may be necessary to assist with activities such as bathing, dressing, mobility, and medication management.
Counseling, therapy, and support groups can help individuals process the emotional toll of a life-changing injury, including depression, anxiety, and trauma.
If returning to a previous job isn’t possible, vocational programs can help victims develop new skills and explore alternative employment opportunities.
Support networks and local programs provide encouragement, resources, and practical advice from others who have faced similar challenges, helping survivors feel less alone in their recovery.
If you or someone you love has suffered a catastrophic injury, knowing what to do next can protect your health, rights, and future. Here are the key steps to take:
Prompt medical care is essential to stabilize the injury and prevent further complications.
Take photos, gather medical records, and keep copies of accident reports or witness statements. This documentation can support your legal claim if one becomes necessary.
Follow all medical advice and attend all scheduled appointments as directed. Consistent care not only supports recovery but also strengthens your case.
An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options, manage insurance issues, and pursue compensation for your losses.
Work with doctors and financial planners to create a sustainable care plan—covering future treatments, home modifications, and income replacement needs
California sets firm deadlines for taking legal action after a catastrophic injury. In most cases, you have two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.
If your claim involves a government agency—such as a city vehicle or public property hazard—you must file a formal claim within six months of the incident.
Missing these deadlines could mean giving up your right to compensation altogether. That’s why it’s essential to speak with a catastrophic injury attorney in Los Angeles as soon as possible.
Establishing who is responsible for a catastrophic injury requires careful legal work. A catastrophic injury attorney in Los Angeles will examine all available evidence—such as police reports, video footage, witness statements, and expert opinions—to prove negligence.
California uses a comparative fault system, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partly to blame for the accident. However, your total award may be reduced based on your share of responsibility.
If you’ve experienced a serious, life-altering injury, it’s essential to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. A Los Angeles catastrophic injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process—gathering evidence, working with medical experts, and negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf.
If your injury involves permanent disability, loss of income, or the need for ongoing care, early legal support can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving full compensation. Don’t wait—getting the right help now can shape your recovery later.
Suffering a catastrophic injury can turn your life upside down—physically, emotionally, and financially. A skilled Los Angeles catastrophic injury lawyer can guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you need. Here’s how they help:
Your attorney will examine the details of your injury, identify who’s at fault, and determine the best course of action under California personal injury laws and deadlines.
To support your claim, your legal team will gather essential documents—medical records, accident reports, and witness statements—and may consult with experts to strengthen your case.
Insurance companies often try to offer less than what you deserve. Your attorney will handle negotiations, making sure your settlement reflects your current and future medical costs, lost wages, and other damages.
If a fair settlement can’t be reached, your attorney will be ready to take your case to court, presenting your story, challenging the defense, and fighting for the maximum recovery.
Identifying who’s at fault is a key part of recovering compensation in a catastrophic injury claim. Often, more than one party may be legally responsible, depending on the circumstances of the injury.
Speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence are all forms of negligence behind the wheel. When reckless driving causes serious injury, the driver can be held financially accountable.
Suppose a workplace accident leads to a catastrophic injury. In such cases, an employer may be liable, especially if they fail to follow safety protocols, ignore known hazards, or do not provide proper training or equipment.
Landlords and business owners must maintain the safety of their properties. If someone is seriously injured because of unsafe conditions—like broken handrails, poor lighting, or slippery floors—the property owner may be held liable.
Companies that create or sell defective products can be held responsible when those products cause serious harm. This includes faulty car parts, medical devices, tools, or household appliances.
Health care professionals must meet a standard of care. If a doctor, nurse, or other provider makes a preventable mistake—such as a surgical error or medication mishap—that results in a life-changing injury, they may face a medical malpractice claim.
To pursue a successful catastrophic injury case, you’ll need strong, well-documented evidence that clearly shows how the injury occurred, who was at fault, and how your life has been affected. Common forms of evidence include:
Detailed records showing the severity of your injuries, the treatments you’ve received, and the care you’ll need in the future help prove how much the injury has impacted your health and quality of life.
Official reports from police officers, workplace investigators, or other authorities provide an objective account of the incident. These documents often serve as a starting point for establishing liability.
People who saw the accident can offer valuable insights. Their firsthand accounts can support your version of events and help fill in details that other evidence may not cover.
Images or video footage from the scene, including your injuries or property damage, offer powerful visual proof. They can clarify what happened and counter any inaccurate claims made by the other party.
Doctors can explain how your injuries will affect you in the long term. Other experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists or financial professionals, can help demonstrate how the injury occurred and what it may cost you over time in terms of lost wages and care expenses.
A catastrophic injury can leave you facing years of recovery, lost income, and emotional trauma. If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation that helps you rebuild your life. Here are the main types of damages you may be able to recover:
You can seek full coverage for both current and future medical costs, including ER visits, surgeries, hospital stays, medications, physical therapy, and ongoing care.
If your injury kept you from working, you may be able to recover the income you lost, whether it’s from time off for treatment, recovery, or medical appointments.
If your injury limits your ability to work long-term or permanently, you may be compensated for the income you’ll lose in the future based on your previous earning potential.
This covers the emotional and physical impact of the injury—chronic pain, emotional distress, anxiety, PTSD, or loss of enjoyment in everyday activities.
In cases of extreme negligence or intentional harm, courts may award additional compensation to punish the wrongdoer and discourage similar actions.
Insurance companies don’t profit by paying out large settlements, and they’re often quick to minimize or deny valid claims. If you’re recovering from a life-altering injury, here’s how to protect your rights when dealing with insurers:
Insurance adjusters might sound helpful, but they’re trained to look for ways to reduce your claim. Avoid giving recorded statements without legal advice—your words could be used against you.
Insurers often make low initial offers, hoping you’ll settle quickly. These offers rarely reflect the full cost of your injuries, especially if you’ll need long-term care. Review any settlement with an attorney before agreeing.
Settlement agreements sometimes include language that waives your right to seek more compensation later, even if new medical issues come up. An attorney can help you understand the fine print and make informed choices.
A denial doesn’t mean you’re out of options. A Los Angeles catastrophic injury attorney can help you challenge the decision, gather more substantial evidence, and push for the compensation you deserve.
After a catastrophic injury, figuring out how to cover your expenses can be overwhelming. Several types of insurance may help, depending on how and where your injury happened:
If you were injured in a car, motorcycle, or truck crash, the at-fault driver’s auto insurance—or your own—may cover medical costs, lost income, and other related damages.
If the injury occurred at work, you may qualify for workers’ compensation. This can help pay for your medical care, rehabilitation, and a portion of your lost wages while you recover.
If unsafe property conditions—like broken stairs, poor lighting, or a structural hazard—led to your injury, the property owner’s insurance may be responsible for covering your losses.
Health coverage can help with doctor visits, hospital stays, and medications. However, it often falls short in areas such as long-term rehabilitation, assistive technology, or home modifications.
If your injury keeps you from working, disability insurance (through an employer or private plan) may provide income replacement—short-term or long-term—depending on the policy.
No two catastrophic injury cases are exactly alike. The amount you may recover depends on several key factors:
Life-altering injuries—such as paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, or amputations—often lead to larger settlements or verdicts due to their long-term impact on your health and daily life.
You may be entitled to compensation for all related medical expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, home modifications, and long-term treatment needs.
If you’re unable to return to your job or earn what you did before, your claim can include both lost wages and compensation for reduced future earning ability.
Beyond the physical toll, the emotional impact of your injury—such as anxiety, depression, or loss of enjoyment in life—can significantly influence your claim’s value.
If the at-fault party’s actions were especially reckless or intentional, a court may award additional compensation to hold them accountable and deter similar misconduct in the future.
Every case is different. Some settle in a few months, while others may take years. A few things that can affect your timeline:
If it’s unclear who’s at fault or if more than one person is involved, it may take longer to gather the proper evidence and build your case.
Doctors often need time to understand the severity of your injury. Your lawyer may wait until you’ve reached maximum recovery so your future care is fully considered.
Some insurers move quickly. Others stall or offer low settlements. Your attorney may need time to negotiate or push back.
If a fair deal isn’t possible, your case may need to go to trial. That takes more time, but it could lead to a better outcome.
If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, acting quickly is crucial. California law places strict time limits on your right to seek compensation:
Most catastrophic injury attorneys in California—including RMD Law—work on a contingency fee basis, which means:
If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, speaking with a Los Angeles devastating injury attorney early on can help protect your rights and set you on the path to recovery.
If you or someone you love has suffered a catastrophic injury, our team at RMD Law is here to help. With deep experience and dedication, a catastrophic injury lawyer in California from our Los Angeles team will review your case, explain your legal options, and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Schedule your free consultation today by calling us at (909) 326-5000, sending a fax to (909) 326-7000, or visiting our Contact Us page. We’re ready to stand by your side with compassion, experience, and trusted legal support.
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If you or a loved one suffered a life-altering injury, a Los Angeles catastrophic injury attorney can evaluate whether you have a valid case. A few key factors include:
A qualified attorney will review your medical records, accident details, and expert opinions to build a strong claim on your behalf.
Yes. California follows comparative negligence, which means you can still recover damages even if you share some responsibility for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Yes. In catastrophic injury cases, compensation isn’t limited to physical harm. You may also be able to recover damages for:
Supporting your claim with therapy notes, psychological evaluations, and personal accounts can help strengthen your case.
Families in California rely on us to handle their brain injury claims with compassion and commitment. Here’s what they have to say:
A Minor’s Compromise is a court-approved process in California that ensures the proper handling of settlements for a minor’s injury or wrongful death claim. California law requires court approval of any settlement involving a minor to ensure the minor’s rights and future needs are protected.
For victims and their families, the road after a life-changing accident can feel overwhelming. But understanding what catastrophic injuries are, how they affect the body and mind, and what legal options exist can make all the difference.
Knowing what to do in accidents that result in spinal cord or brain injuries can help you recover expenses and succeed in the case. Read below to learn more about the legal complexities of spinal cord and brain injury lawsuits.
Over $200,000,000 total recent personal injury wins for our clients. Our dedicated personal injury lawyers are eager to fight for you.
RMD Law found an insurance code violation by the defense insurance company in a dog bite injury case. With smart lawyering, we used the violation to argue that the $100,000 policy limits no longer applied.
The insurance company wrongfully refused to pay our client the $100k policy limit in a rollover auto accident. RMD Law refused to take no for an answer, and filed a lawsuit alleging bad faith, ultimately winning millions for our deserving client.
Confidential bad faith settlement – a negligent driver t-boned our client at a red light resulting in severe spinal injuries. The defendant’s insurance company unreasonably refused to pay the $100K policy limit. RMD Law filed a lawsuit seeking the true value of the case. Policy was opened, and the client settled for an amount vastly higher than the original limits.
Aria is a member of the prestigious Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum®. He speaks English, Farsi, and Spanish.
Nicole has settled hundreds of personal injuries claims, known for her professional, honest, and caring approach.
John is a former defense lawyer turned award-winning personal injury lawyer. He speaks English and Farsi.
Associate Attorney Yen Quach started work at RMD Law in 2017 as a paralegal. Injured clients seeking justice from insurance companies can do no better than Yen.
Ryan is a caring and experienced litigator. He defended scores of depositions and understands what it takes to move a case in California.
Ariana Martin is one of RMD Law’s skilled personal injury lawyers. She brings a lot of legal experience to the table, having worked previously in the field of insurance defense.
We care about your recovery. We stake our reputation on it.
RMD Law is a California Personal Injury law firm. We help victims who have been injured in accidents due to someone else’s negligence. RMD Law offers free no-obligation case evaluations for our clients.
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