Legal professionals use the term “catastrophic injury” to describe any injury that is so severe that it prevents an individual from holding gainful employment. When an accident victim is unable to work, they may struggle to afford their medical bills, rehabilitation fees, and other injury-related expenses. As these bills start piling up, they may turn to a qualified legal professional for assistance.
The most common causes of catastrophic injuries include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Medical malpractice incidents
- Defective consumer products
- Construction site accidents
- Acts of intentional violence
- Drowning events
People who sustain catastrophic injuries need to be financially prepared for a future of medical treatments, therapy programs, and professional care services. Fortunately, courts in New Mexico are well-aware of the physical, mental, and financial hardships linked to catastrophic injuries, and are willing to award plaintiffs significant damages that provide for their respective needs. That said, the court needs to examine a multitude of factors to determine how much compensation a plaintiff’s injuries warrant. For instance, the court may examine how the plaintiff’s injuries impact their social opportunities, career options, and physical capabilities, and award compensation accordingly.
Catastrophic injuries include, but are not limited to:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe neck injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Burn injuries
- Disfigurement
- Paralysis
- Dismemberment
What Damages Can I Recover?
To recover compensation, a plaintiff first needs to file a claim against the negligent individual, company, or government agency they believe is responsible for their injuries. Because personal injury is an incredibly nuanced legal field, we recommend retaining the services of an experienced attorney before filing a claim. At Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law, our personal injury lawyer has the skills and resources to investigate the injurious accident or event, calculate the maximum value of your claim, and litigate on your behalf in court to obtain a settlement that reflects your financial needs.
A plaintiff can recover the following damages by filing a claim:
- Existing and projected medical fees
- Long-term disability
- Emotional and mental trauma
- Therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Loss of wages and earning capacity
- Loss of enjoyment in life
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care expenses
- Housing or vehicle modifications
- Transportation fees
- Property damage
Schedule a Free Consultation Today
In New Mexico, a plaintiff has 4 years from the date of the accident to file a claim against any at-fault parties. The legal team at Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law can represent your claim and negotiate with the defendant’s insurer on your behalf. With our assistance, you can recover a settlement or verdict that maintains your standard of living.
Contact Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law at (505) 219-2176 to explore your legal options with an experienced legal professional.