Boston Catastrophic Injury Lawyers

Handling Serious Injury Claims Throughout New England

When your injuries are debilitating and permanent, it can be hard to have hope for a future. When you’ve had to quit your job because you can no longer perform the tasks required or you’re not able to take care of yourself at home, you may feel helpless and isolated, especially if you have no idea how you’re going to pay the bills. Crowe & Harris, LLP is here to remind you that obtaining the future you deserve is possible with our help.

Our Boston catastrophic injury lawyers serve clients throughout New England who are suffering from severe injuries after accidents and have achieved numerous multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements to cover the extent of their damages. Our founding attorney has even set the record for the largest dental malpractice award in the country. We have what it takes to ensure your bills are covered, both emergency and future costs of care.

Severe injuries demand serious representation.
Our Boston catastrophic injury attorneys help clients recover the compensation needed for long-term care and peace of mind.
Contact us today for your free consultation.

Understanding Catastrophic Injuries

An injury that is temporary and relatively easy to recover from, such as a sprained ankle or whiplash, is considered minor. Severe injuries, on the other hand, that result in long-term complications or are permanent and can transform your life are known as catastrophic.

Catastrophic injuries are not just about physical damage but also encompass the profound impact on the victim's emotional and mental well-being. The road to recovery, if even possible, may include prolonged medical treatments, psychological therapy, and significant lifestyle adjustments. These injuries often leave individuals facing daunting life changes, from loss of independence to lifelong dependency on care and support.

Some of the catastrophic injuries our team has seen and treated include:

Other catastrophic injuries include severe burns, amputations, or loss of limbs. Any accident can lead to a serious injury, though some of the most common accidents include car crashes, slip and falls, and medical malpractice. Car accidents can be severe when large trucks are involved, and often the most vulnerable individuals like motorcyclists or pedestrians suffer catastrophic injuries because they lack safety features like seat belts.

Medical professionals can also cause catastrophic injuries when they worsen existing injuries, such as in surgery or some other procedure, or when they fail to diagnose someone’s condition and don’t treat it before it becomes severe or deadly. No matter what accident caused your injuries, if you believe negligence is to blame, it’s in your best interest to pursue a legal claim.

How Do I Know If I Have a Brain Injury?

Some catastrophic injuries are apparent in the aftermath of an accident, such as the loss of a leg or paralysis. However, other injuries are known to take time to appear. Brain injuries are a prime example of a catastrophic injury that might not be obvious at first. This is why we always recommend that injured individuals get medical attention after an accident, even if they don’t feel pain.

Brain injuries can be particularly insidious, as they may not manifest symptoms until days or even weeks after the trauma. It's crucial to recognize even subtle changes in cognitive function, behavior, or mood. Early diagnosis and intervention can be pivotal in mitigating long-term consequences. Therefore, understanding the full spectrum of symptoms—from physical to cognitive—can make a significant difference in treatment outcomes.

Some warning signs of a brain injury include:

If you’ve experienced any of the following after an accident, especially if you know you hit your head, seek medical attention immediately so your brain injury doesn’t worsen.

Why Catastrophic Injuries Involve High Damages

Catastrophic injuries tend to involve high damages because of their severity. A serious brain injury may require extensive time spent in the hospital, numerous surgeries, and medication, all of which can drive up the medical bills the patient receives when they’re discharged. Other catastrophic injuries that lead to lifelong disability, like paralysis, require future costs like physical therapy sessions, medical equipment purchases, and more.

The financial implications extend beyond immediate medical expenses. Individuals may face long-term rehabilitation, home modifications to accommodate disabilities, and the potential need for long-term care or assisted living services. Additionally, the emotional and psychological toll on both the injured individual and their family further compounds the overall impact of such injuries. The loss of quality of life and the ability to participate in once-loved activities also contribute to higher damage evaluations.

Other damages to consider are:

• Lost income or diminished earning capacity: Income lost from missing or quitting work due to injury
• Property damage: Damage to personal property involved in the accident
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress
• At-home nursing care: Costs associated with home-based care services
• Costs of retrofitting the home: Expenses involved in modifying a home to accommodate disability needs

Failing to file a personal injury claim or attempting to handle your case on your own isn’t an option when your future and your family’s well-being hang in the balance. In order to have the best chance of recovering the amount your case is worth, you need to hire a firm that is recognized for its results.

Our lawyers are recognized nationwide for our multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements, and our founding attorney set the record for the largest dental malpractice award in the country. With experience and results under our belt, as well as a team of full-time nurses, we have the resources needed to obtain the compensation you deserve for your serious injuries and suffering.

Understanding Catastrophic Injury Laws in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has specific laws governing personal injury cases, particularly those related to catastrophic injuries. One important aspect of these laws is the statute of limitations, which dictates the time frame in which a victim can file a lawsuit. In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically three years from the date of the accident, though certain case-specific factors can affect this deadline. Because of this, many people choose to consult a catastrophic injury attorney in Boston as soon as possible after an accident.

Furthermore, Massachusetts operates under a modified comparative fault rule. This means that if an injured party is found to be more than 50% responsible for their injury, they cannot recover damages. However, if they are 50% or less at fault, their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. This underscores the importance of having experienced legal representation to help establish the other party's negligence and minimize any potential blame assigned to the victim.

Examples of Catastrophic Injury Settlements in Boston

Boston has seen numerous high-profile catastrophic injury settlements, underscoring the critical nature of competent legal representation. These settlements are often determined by various factors, including the severity of injuries, the level of negligence involved, and the impact on the victim's life. For instance, a motor vehicle accident involving a large commercial truck on Interstate 93 that resulted in a spinal cord injury could lead to a multi-million-dollar settlement, reflecting the lifelong impact on the victim's mobility and independence.

The Asiana Airlines Flight 214 crash is another case where catastrophic injuries led to significant settlements. Survivors suffered from severe burns and traumatic brain injuries, which required comprehensive long-term medical care. Settlements in such cases not only consider medical expenses but also account for pain and suffering, ensuring victims obtain a just and equitable resolution. This highlights the importance of partnering with skilled attorneys who can effectively negotiate and maximize settlement values on behalf of their clients.

How a Boston Catastrophic Injury Attorney Can Assist You

After a life-changing accident, many families are unsure what steps to take or how a lawyer can actually help in day-to-day terms. A Boston catastrophic injury attorney can coordinate key pieces of your claim, from gathering medical records and employer documentation to working with medical professionals at hospitals like Massachusetts General Hospital or Brigham and Women's Hospital to understand your long-term care needs. By managing communication with insurance companies and defense counsel, your legal team can help you avoid common mistakes and keep the focus on your recovery.

We also work with financial and medical experts to evaluate the full value of your losses, including projected future treatment, assistive devices, and in-home support. For clients injured on major routes such as the Massachusetts Turnpike or Route 128, this often involves reconstructing how the crash occurred and identifying every potentially responsible party. Our goal is to give you the information you need to make informed decisions about settlement offers, litigation, and how to balance your legal claim with your medical and family responsibilities.

For many people, one of the most stressful parts of a catastrophic injury case is the uncertainty about what comes next. As your case progresses through the Boston courts, including venues such as Suffolk Superior Court, we keep you updated on each stage, from initial investigation through negotiations and, if needed, trial preparation. By explaining your options in clear terms and answering your questions promptly, we aim to reduce some of the anxiety that comes with a serious injury claim so you can focus more fully on your rehabilitation and long-term planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Do Immediately After Suffering a Catastrophic Injury?

First and foremost, seek immediate medical attention to ensure your injuries are properly assessed and documented. This initial step is crucial not only for your health but also for any future legal action. Notify law enforcement and request a copy of any accident report for your records. Document the scene if possible, capturing photos or videos, and collect contact information for any witnesses. After addressing your immediate medical needs, contact a knowledgeable catastrophic injury attorney, like those at Crowe & Harris, LLP, who can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.

How Are Catastrophic Injury Cases Evaluated in Massachusetts?

Catastrophic injury cases are evaluated based on several key factors, including the severity and permanence of the injuries, the impact on the victim's lifestyle, and the degree of negligence by the responsible party. Courts consider detailed medical reports, expert testimonies, and evidence of financial losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages. They also assess non-economic damages like pain and suffering and emotional distress. Working with a seasoned attorney ensures a comprehensive evaluation of all damages to achieve a fair and full recovery for victims.

Can I Pursue Compensation If I Partially Contributed to My Catastrophic Injury?

Yes, you may still pursue compensation even if you were partially at fault, thanks to Massachusetts' modified comparative fault rule. If you are found to be 50% or less responsible for your catastrophic injury, you can still recover damages, although your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. It's essential to work with a skilled attorney who can effectively argue your case, minimizing any assigned fault and maximizing potential compensation to help cover the extensive costs associated with your injury.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Resolve a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

The timeline for resolving a catastrophic injury claim can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances surrounding the case. Factors influencing duration include the complexity of the incident, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of parties to negotiate a settlement. While some cases can resolve in a few months, others may take several years if they proceed to trial. With the support of experienced attorneys like those at Crowe & Harris, LLP, clients can navigate this process more efficiently, ensuring timely and effective handling of their claims.

What Damages Can Be Pursued in a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

Victims of catastrophic injuries can pursue a range of damages, both economic and non-economic. Economic damages typically cover verifiable monetary losses, including medical treatment costs, rehabilitation expenses, loss of earnings, and costs associated with modifying living arrangements to accommodate disabilities. Non-economic damages address more subjective impacts such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Establishing the full scope of damages requires meticulous documentation and expert witnesses, areas where qualified attorneys can provide significant assistance in maximizing compensation.FAQs About Catastrophic Injuries in Boston

What Should I Do After Suffering a Catastrophic Injury?

First and foremost, seek immediate medical attention to ensure your injuries are properly assessed and documented. This initial step is crucial not only for your health but also for any future legal action. Notify law enforcement and request a copy of any accident report for your records. Document the scene if possible, capturing photos or videos, and collect contact information for any witnesses. After addressing your immediate medical needs, contact a knowledgeable catastrophic injury attorney, like those at Crowe & Harris, LLP, who can guide you through the legal process and help protect your rights.

How Are Catastrophic Injury Cases Evaluated in Massachusetts?

Catastrophic injury cases are evaluated based on several key factors, including the severity and permanence of the injuries, the impact on the victim's lifestyle, and the degree of negligence by the responsible party. Courts consider detailed medical reports, expert testimonies, and evidence of financial losses, such as medical expenses and lost wages. They also assess non-economic damages like pain and suffering and emotional distress. Working with a seasoned attorney ensures a comprehensive evaluation of all damages to achieve a fair and full recovery for victims.

How Long Does It Typically Take to Resolve a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

The timeline for resolving a catastrophic injury claim can vary significantly based on the specific circumstances surrounding the case. Factors influencing duration include the complexity of the incident, the severity of injuries, and the willingness of parties to negotiate a settlement. While some cases can resolve in a few months, others may take several years if they proceed to trial. With the support of experienced attorneys like those at Crowe & Harris, LLP, clients can navigate this process more efficiently, ensuring timely and effective handling of their claims.