Personal Injury Settlements and Cases Won in California.
Long Beach offers residents a dynamic coastal lifestyle, but serious accidents like pedestrian injuries can still happen. Catastrophic injuries caused by negligent actions, unsafe conditions, or preventable accidents can lead to long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. Whether stemming from a traffic collision, industrial incident, or medical mistake, these severe injuries often disrupt lives permanently.
Navigating a catastrophic injury claim in California can be overwhelming. These cases often involve significant medical care, rehabilitation, and long-term life adjustments. Victims and their families may be eligible to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost earnings, and emotional distress. It is essential to work with a knowledgeable Long Beach catastrophic injury attorney to understand your rights and secure the resources necessary for recovery.
This page outlines the types of catastrophic injuries, their causes, available legal remedies, and how to pursue a claim with the help of an experienced legal team.
Catastrophic injuries are severe by nature, often resulting in permanent disability and a dramatically altered way of life. Below are some of the most common types of catastrophic injuries seen in Long Beach and throughout California:
A traumatic brain injury can range from a severe concussion to debilitating brain damage that affects speech, memory, behavior, and motor skills. TBIs may result from car crashes, falls, or assaults and often require lifelong care, therapy, and assisted living. Victims frequently lose the ability to work or care for themselves independently, placing immense strain on families.
Spinal cord trauma can cause partial or full paralysis, limit mobility and disrupt bodily functions such as bladder or bowel control. These injuries often necessitate the use of wheelchairs, home modifications, and 24/7 medical assistance. Secondary complications, such as chronic pain, muscle spasm, and infections, can also arise.
Burns from fires, chemical exposure, or electrical accidents can result in third-degree injuries that penetrate deep layers of skin and tissue. Victims may experience intense physical pain, disfigurement, nerve damage, and long-term psychological trauma. Multiple surgeries, including skin grafts and reconstructive procedures, are typically required.
Losing a limb due to an accident or surgical necessity is both physically and emotionally devastating. Even with access to prosthetics and rehabilitation, amputation victims face lasting challenges in mobility, employment, and self-care. Many also experience phantom limb pain or complications that demand ongoing treatment.
High-impact accidents, such as industrial incidents or serious vehicle collisions, can result in multiple broken bones or crushing injuries. These may require complex surgeries, long hospital stays, and extended physical therapy. In severe cases, tissue damage and infection from crush injuries may lead to amputation or permanent disability.
Catastrophic injuries have far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond physical harm to the individual. Some of the most profound challenges include:
Victims of catastrophic injuries frequently endure chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term health complications. Simple tasks like walking, dressing, or driving may become difficult—or impossible—without assistance.
Life after a catastrophic injury can be emotionally devastating. Victims often experience psychological effects like depression or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which can impact relationships, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.
From emergency medical care and surgeries to long-term rehabilitation and assistive devices, the cost of treatment can be overwhelming. Add to this the loss of income due to an inability to work, and many families find themselves facing severe financial hardship.
Loved ones often become caregivers, navigating a new reality filled home care responsibilities and medical appointments. The pressure can lead to burnout, strained relationships, and significant lifestyle adjustments for everyone involved.
Catastrophic injuries are more common than many people realize — and their consequences can last a lifetime. In Long Beach, thousands of individuals each year suffer serious, life-altering harm due to accidents, workplace incidents, defective products, or negligence. These injuries demand extensive medical care and rehabilitation, which can place a heavy financial and emotional toll on victims and their families.
Recent data highlights the widespread and growing impact of catastrophic injuries:
A catastrophic injury is a profound, life-altering condition that leads to lasting disability, significant disfigurement, or a major decline in one’s overall quality of life. Unlike less serious injuries, these critical conditions often hinder a person’s ability to work or maintain independence. In Long Beach, such injuries may result from traumatic brain damage, spinal cord injuries causing paralysis, or severe internal organ damage. Under California law, the long-term nature of these injuries often qualifies victims for increased financial compensation due to the substantial and ongoing effects on their daily lives.
Catastrophic injuries often stem from sudden, traumatic events—many of which are caused by negligence, recklessness, or unsafe environments. In Long Beach and throughout California, the most common causes include:
Collisions involving cars, motorcycles, or trucks frequently result in catastrophic injuries. High-speed impacts, head-on crashes, and rollovers can lead to spinal injuries, brain trauma, amputations, and other life-altering conditions.
Industries like construction, manufacturing, and transportation expose workers to hazardous conditions. These incidents often require the expertise of a catastrophic injury lawyer in Long Beach to navigate the complex laws governing workers’ compensation and liability.
While often dismissed as minor, serious slip-and-fall incidents can cause traumatic brain injuries, fractured bones, and spinal cord damage. Elderly individuals are particularly vulnerable to severe outcomes from falls.
When doctors or healthcare facilities make preventable errors, the consequences can be devastating. Surgical mistakes like anesthesia errors and birth injuries may result in permanent conditions that drastically alter a patient’s life.
Gunshot wounds, stabbings, and other violent assaults often lead to paralysis, brain injuries, or amputations. In addition, victims usually suffer lasting emotional and psychological harm.
The financial impact of a catastrophic injury can be staggering for both victims and their families. Key long-term costs include:
From ambulance transport to life-saving surgeries and intensive care unit (ICU) stays, initial treatment can quickly escalate into hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Recovery doesn’t end at discharge. Victims often need physical and occupational therapy sessions to rebuild strength, relearn basic skills, and adjust to a new way of life.
Long-term disability often requires significant investments in assistive technology, such as wheelchairs and prosthetic limbs.
Many individuals with catastrophic injuries are unable to return to their previous jobs — or to work at all. Lost wages and the need for permanent disability benefits all contribute to long-term financial insecurity.
Lifelong care often includes chronic follow-up surgeries, specialist visits, and medications. These recurring costs continue for years and must be factored into any legal compensation claim.
Unlike temporary or minor injuries, these cases often involve complex, long-term care plans to help victims maintain their health, independence, and dignity. Some of the most critical forms of specialized care include:
Many individuals require 24/7 caregiving support for tasks such as bathing, dressing, administering medications, and managing medical equipment.
Ongoing individual therapies and peer support groups can help victims, and their loved ones process the trauma and adjust to new challenges.
Victims may benefit from vocational training programs to help them acquire new skills and transition into alternative employment opportunities.
Support groups like advocacy organizations and community resources offer both emotional support and practical assistance in navigating life after an injury.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, taking the proper steps early on can make a critical difference. Here’s what to do:
Prompt medical care is crucial for stabilizing the injury, preventing complications, and laying the groundwork for long-term treatment.
Gather and preserve all relevant information, including photos of the scene, medical records, accident or police reports, and witness statements.
Adhere to your doctor’s instructions, including attending all therapy sessions and follow-ups to maximize your chances of recovery and strengthens your legal case.
An experienced catastrophic injury attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate complex insurance for medical expenses and suffering.
Work with medical professionals, care coordinators, and financial advisors to plan for your future. These needs may include rehabilitation, assistive devices, and ongoing care.
California law places strict time limits on filing personal injury lawsuits. In most catastrophic injury cases, victims have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit. However, if the claim involves a government agency, such as a city department or public transportation system, a formal claim must be filed within six months of the incident.
Missing these deadlines can mean losing your right to compensation—regardless of how strong your case may be. To protect your legal options, it’s crucial to consult a qualified catastrophic injury attorney in Long Beach as soon as possible.
Establishing who is legally responsible for a catastrophic injury involves an in-depth investigation. A skilled Long Beach catastrophic injury lawyer will examine all relevant evidence, including:
California follows a comparative fault rule, which means you can still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. However, your total award will be reduced by the percentage of responsibility you hold. For example, if you are found to be 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that amount.
An experienced attorney will work to minimize your share of fault and maximize your financial recovery.
Catastrophic injury claims are complex and high-stakes. If your injury has caused permanent disability, prevents you from returning to work, or demands extensive long-term care, hiring an attorney is not just helpful—it’s essential. A seasoned Long Beach catastrophic injury attorney can:
Without legal support, you may miss out on the financial resources you need to support your recovery and protect your future.
When you’re facing the devastating effects of a catastrophic injury, the proper legal support can make all the difference. A dedicated attorney will be your advocate throughout the legal process, helping you pursue justice and secure the financial assistance you need to rebuild your life.
Here’s how a catastrophic injury lawyer in Long Beach can help:
Your attorney will evaluate how the injury occurred, who may be liable, and what damage you may be entitled to under California personal injury law. They’ll also ensure your case is filed within the appropriate legal deadlines.
To build a strong case, your catastrophic injury lawyer will collect and examine medical records, accident reports, photos, surveillance footage, and witness statements. They may also consult with experts to strengthen your claim.
Insurance companies often offer low settlements that don’t reflect the actual cost of your injuries. Your attorney will calculate your current and future expenses and negotiate assertively on your behalf.
If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your attorney is prepared to represent you at trial—presenting evidence, questioning witnesses, and advocating for maximum compensation. With the guidance of a trusted Long Beach catastrophic injury attorney, you can focus on healing while they handle the legal fight for your future.
Determining liability is one of the most critical aspects of a catastrophic injury case. In many situations, multiple parties may share responsibility and identifying them early can increase your chances of recovering full compensation. Commonly liable parties include:
Reckless behaviors such as speeding, texting while driving, or driving under the influence often result in catastrophic accidents. These drivers may be held liable for any severe injuries caused by their negligence on the road.
Workplace accidents are a leading cause of catastrophic injuries. If an employer fails to follow safety regulations, provide adequate training, or maintain a safe environment, they may be held accountable under California labor laws.
Landlords and business owners are required to maintain reasonably safe premises. If someone suffers a serious injury due to hazardous conditions—such as wet floors, poor lighting, or broken stairways—they may be able to pursue a premises liability claim.
Defective or dangerous products, including vehicle parts, medical devices, or household appliances, can cause life-threatening injuries. Manufacturers and distributors may be liable for design flaws, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn consumers of risks.
Doctors, nurses, and healthcare providers can be held responsible for catastrophic harm caused by surgical errors, misdiagnoses, medication mistakes, or birth injuries. In these cases, your attorney will work to prove medical negligence.
Building a successful catastrophic injury claim requires strong, well-documented evidence. The following types of proof are critical to demonstrate the severity of the injury, establishing liability, and calculating damages:
Comprehensive documentation of diagnoses, treatments, rehabilitation, and long-term care needs is essential. These records help prove the extent and impact of your injuries.
Official reports from police, workplace safety investigators, or emergency personnel can offer objective details about how the incident occurred and who may be at fault.
Eyewitness accounts help confirm what happened before, during, and after the incident. These statements can strengthen your version of events and support your claim.
Visual documentation of the accident scene, including your injuries and any property damage, provides compelling evidence and can help refute conflicting claims.
Experts, such as medical professionals, accident reconstruction specialists, and financial analysts, can provide professional insight into the cause of the injury, its long-term effects, and the economic impact on your life.
Individuals who suffer catastrophic injuries in Long Beach may be eligible for multiple forms of financial recovery, depending on the details of their case:
Coverage for all necessary healthcare expenses, including emergency care, surgeries, inpatient stays, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment. This support helps ensure access to critical care without overwhelming financial strain.
Compensation for earnings lost while unable to work during the recovery period. This includes time off due to medical appointments, hospitalization, and recuperation from the injury.
If the injury results in a lasting or permanent disability that restricts the victim’s ability to earn a living, they may receive compensation for projected lost income. This reflects the gap between past income levels and current work capacity.
Non-economic compensation addresses the physical discomfort, psychological harm, and reduced life satisfaction caused by the injury. It may include awards for depression, anxiety, trauma, and loss of enjoyment in daily life.
In situations involving gross negligence or willful misconduct, the court may award punitive damages. These are designed to penalize the responsible party and discourage similar actions in the future.
Insurance companies are not always on your side. Their primary goal is to reduce payouts, and they often use strategies that work against injury victims. Protect yourself by keeping the following in mind:
Adjusters may try to get you to say something that weakens your claim. Politely decline recorded interviews until you’ve spoken with a lawyer.
Initial settlement offers are often far below what your case is truly worth. Insurers count on victims to accept less in exchange for a quick resolution.
Before signing any document, consult a catastrophic injury lawyer to ensure your rights are protected and that you aren’t giving up future compensation.
Denial isn’t the end of the road. A skilled attorney can file an appeal, submit additional evidence, and negotiate for a fair settlement or take your case to court if needed.
Navigating the various insurance policies involved in a catastrophic injury can be a complex process. Depending on how and where the injury occurred, different forms of coverage may apply:
Covers injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents, including costs for emergency care, hospitalization, rehabilitation, and lost income. It may also apply in pedestrian or cycling accidents involving a vehicle.
Applies to employees injured on the job. Benefits include medical treatment, temporary or permanent disability payments, and vocational rehabilitation.
If the injury occurred due to unsafe property conditions — such as wet floors or structural hazards — the property owner’s liability insurance may cover medical costs and related damages.
Can help with initial treatment but may not cover specialized care, long-term therapy, or medical equipment often needed for catastrophic injuries.
Short-term or long-term disability benefits can provide income replacement if your injuries prevent you from working. These benefits vary based on your policy and may require extensive documentation.
The value of a catastrophic injury claim can vary significantly based on the unique circumstances of your case. Key factors that influence the total compensation include:
More serious injuries generally result in higher compensation due to their lasting impact on your ability to maintain a standard quality of life.
You may be entitled to reimbursement for all medical costs, including hospital stays and surgeries required for accessibility.
If your injury prevents you from returning to your job or working altogether, your claim may include lost wages and diminished earning potential over your lifetime.
Non-economic damage covers the physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the injury. These damages acknowledge the mental and emotional toll that often accompanies life-altering trauma.
In rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional misconduct, the court may award punitive damages. These are meant to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior in the future.
Catastrophic injury cases often require several months to years to resolve, depending on the case’s complexity and specific circumstances. Key factors that can influence the timeline include:
When multiple parties are involved, or liability is disputed, it may take additional time to conduct investigations and gather supporting evidence.
In many cases, settlement discussions are delayed until the victim reaches maximum medical improvement.
Some insurers cooperate early, while others may delay negotiations or use pressure tactics to offer lower settlements.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, the case may go to trial. Litigation can significantly extend the timeline, especially in high-stakes cases involving severe injuries.
California enforces strict deadlines—known as statutes of limitations—for filing personal injury claims. Missing these deadlines could bar you from recovering compensation, so it’s essential to act quickly:
You have two years from the date of the injury to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
If a city, county, or public agency is involved, you must file an administrative claim within six months of the incident.
Certain circumstances—such as injuries involving minors or delayed discovery—may extend the filing deadline.
A qualified catastrophic injury attorney in Long Beach can help determine which deadlines apply and ensure your case is filed on time.
It’s more accessible to hire a catastrophic injury lawyer in Long Beach than many people realize. Most attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means you don’t pay unless they win your case.
You owe nothing at the start of your case.
Your attorney will typically receive 25% to 40% of the settlement or court award. This percentage may vary depending on the case’s complexity and whether it proceeds to trial.
Most personal injury firms offer a no-obligation case evaluation, allowing you to learn about your rights before committing legal action.
This approach ensures that anyone can access strong legal representation, regardless of financial status.
If you or a family member has sustained a catastrophic injury in Long Beach, our legal team is here to support you. An experienced Long Beach catastrophic injury attorney will review your situation, outline your legal rights, and pursue the full compensation you are entitled to. Reach out to us for a free, no-obligation consultation — call (909) 326-5000, fax (909) 326-7000, or Contact Us to set up your appointment. We’re here to help you navigate this difficult time with trusted guidance and dedicated legal representation.
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If you or a loved one has suffered a severe, life-altering injury, you may be eligible to file a claim. An experienced catastrophic injury attorney in Long Beach can evaluate your case based on several key factors:
A skilled attorney will gather evidence and review your medical records to determine whether you have a strong case.
California follows a comparative negligence system, which means you can still pursue compensation even if you share some of the blame. However, your compensation will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
Yes, you may seek damages for emotional distress and psychological trauma. These non-economic damages often include:
The injured party or sometimes close family members can file for emotional damages. To support your claim, your attorney may include psychiatric evaluations and personal impact statements.
Families throughout Long Beach rely on our firm for compassionate, results-driven representation in catastrophic injury cases. Here’s what some of our clients have to say:
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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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