Catastrophic Injuries

Salem Catastrophic Injury Attorney

Securing Your Future After a Life-Changing Accident

Accidents happen every day, but sometimes one day can change your entire life – and not necessarily for the better. If the consequences of a preventable accident have rendered you unable to work or severely impacted your quality of life, you may be suffering from a catastrophic injury.

Our attorney have over 40 years of experience with catastrophic injury claims. During a free consultation, we can determine whether or not your injury is catastrophic and help you pursue compensation if appropriate.

What Makes an Injury Catastrophic?

An injury becomes catastrophic when it takes away your ability to work.

According to U.S. Code Title 34 §10284 (1):

’catastrophic injury’ means an injury, the direct and proximate consequences of which permanently prevent an individual from performing any gainful work.”

Without a job, you will not be able to provide an income for yourself and/or your family. Additionally, a catastrophic injury may leave you with medical bills and new needs for care and assistance. For many who suffer this type of injury, the financial burden is overwhelming. Victims are often left with permanent disabilities, as well, which can leave the majority of this burden on family members.

When your injury is caused by the negligent or intentional act of someone else, you may be able to alleviate these burdens with a catastrophic injury lawsuit. Contact usat (503) 563-7035to learn how.

What Are Some Examples of Catastrophic Injuries?

The American Medical Association (AMA) defines catastrophic injury as a severe injury to the spine, spinal cord, or brain. Very frequently, catastrophic injuries disrupt the central nervous system, which can have severe effects on other systems of the body.

Examples of catastrophic injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Severe burn injuries
  • Amputations
  • Multiple-bone fractures
  • Organ damage
  • Internal bleeding
  • Neck and shoulder injuries
  • Eye injuries

Many of the injuries above can lead to neurological disorders and paralysis, including paraplegia and quadriplegia.

Any permanent disability you are left with will have a severe impact on your life, which is why our experienced attorney seek full compensation on your behalf. 

Where Do Catastrophic Injuries Take Place?

Catastrophic injuries can occur anywhere and at any time. Nevertheless, they take place most often in motor vehicle accidents, on construction sites, during instances of medical malpractice, and as a result of intentional acts of violence.

Defective products or medical devices can also cause catastrophic injuries. Any time an accident that was not your fault leads to this type of injury, however, you may be entitled to compensation.

Understanding Catastrophic Injuries in Salem: Local Resources and Support

Living in Salem, we understand the unique challenges our community faces when dealing with catastrophic injuries. Whether you're navigating the bustling streets of downtown Salem or commuting via I-5, accidents can happen unexpectedly, leaving you with life-altering consequences. Our local government entities, such as the City of Salem and the Marion County Health Department, provide valuable resources and support for residents dealing with severe injuries.

One of the most significant pain points for Salem residents is the financial burden that comes with catastrophic injuries. With the high cost of medical care and the potential loss of income, many families find themselves struggling to make ends meet. Our team is well-versed in the local landscape and understands the specific needs of our community. We are here to help you navigate the complexities of catastrophic injury claims and secure the compensation you deserve.

Additionally, Salem's proximity to major highways and construction zones increases the risk of serious accidents. Whether it's a collision on Commercial Street or an incident at a local construction site, the aftermath can be devastating. We are committed to providing personalized legal support to our neighbors in Salem, ensuring that you have the resources and guidance needed to move forward after a catastrophic injury.

Commonly Asked Questions

What legal options are available for someone with a catastrophic injury in Salem?

Individuals in Salem who have suffered a catastrophic injury due to someone else's negligence or intentional act have the right to pursue a catastrophic injury lawsuit. This legal action can help alleviate the financial burdens associated with the injury, such as medical expenses, loss of income, and the need for ongoing care. Our attorneys, with over 40 years of experience, offer a free consultation to discuss your case and guide you through the process of seeking full compensation.

How does a catastrophic injury impact a person's employment?

A catastrophic injury is defined as one that permanently prevents an individual from performing any gainful work. This means that if you have suffered such an injury, you may no longer be able to provide an income for yourself or your family. The loss of employment and the ability to earn a living is one of the most significant impacts of a catastrophic injury, and it underscores the importance of seeking legal assistance to secure compensation for these life-altering losses.

Elmer Law, PC We’re Prepared To Help You Through Your Legal Matter

Serving Salem, OR Since 2000

How Does Compensation Help?

After a life-changing accident, filing a lawsuit may be the last thing on your mind. Unfortunately, catastrophic injuries will leave you with pressing financial realities. Even if the situation was entirely unintentional, you should not have to face the consequences of your accident and injury alone.

Most of the time, catastrophic injury claims are not designed to punish the person who caused your accident but rather to provide you with the resources you need to live a full life in light of your injuries.

Compensation can help you afford and/or cope with:

  • Care you received in the emergency room
  • All current and future medical bills
  • Rehabilitative services
  • Assistive devices
  • Lost income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Changes to your quality of life
  • Losses your family may have suffered or will suffer
  • Any assistance or supervision you need or may need in the future

If the person who harmed you did so intentionally or during a severely careless act, like drinking and driving, you may also receive punitive or exemplary damages. These damages are designed to discourage similar behavior in the future and provide you with additional resources and peace of mind.

Filing a lawsuit is reasonable and well within your rights. A successful claim can also make your life easier as you adjust to the changes your injury caused.

Our firm will not charge you a single fee unless we recover on your behalf.

Why Choose Elmer Law, PC?

  • Over 40 Years of Legal Experience
  • Free Case Consultations Available
  • Client-Focused, Results-Oriented Advocacy
  • Representing Clients in State, Federal & Appellate Court
  • You Don't Pay Any Legal Fees Unless We Recover

Why Choose Elmer Law, PC?

Our firm consists of dedicated trial attorney with your best interests at heart. We have been helping injured Oregonians and their families for nearly a decade and Attorneys devote their 40 years of shared experience to each client we represent.

We understand that a lawsuit is a huge undertaking, especially considering the catastrophic injuries you have suffered. That’s why we offer free consultations and only charge you after winning a settlement or verdict on your behalf. When you trust our firm, you can expect to work with compassionate and determined advocates who won’t stop fighting until you receive the justice you deserve.

Call us at (503) 563-7035 today to schedule your free consultation in Salem, OR.

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