New Orleans Catastrophic Injury Lawyers
A catastrophic injury changes everything for both the victim and their loved ones. These devastating injuries often require emergency treatment, long-term care, and costly adjustments to daily life.
At Douglas & London, we understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll catastrophic injuries can have. Our New Orleans personal injury lawyers are here to help you secure the compensation you need for medical care and lifelong support. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Understanding Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries are defined by the severity of their impact on a person’s ability to function. They are life-altering injuries, often resulting in permanent disability and a need for ongoing treatment.
What Makes an Injury “Catastrophic?”
Catastrophic injuries typically involve one or more of the following:
- Limited function
- Long-term cognitive impairment
- Disfigurement or chronic pain
- Dependency on others for everyday needs
Examples of Catastrophic Injuries
Many of the catastrophic injury cases we see in New Orleans involve:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis (partial or complete)
- Severe burn injuries
- Multiple fractures and broken bones
- Crush injuries
- Amputations or limb loss
- Severe organ damage
- Blindness or significant vision loss
These types of injuries typically affect a person’s independence, career, relationships, and quality of life. The victims are more likely to experience chronic health problems and, in some cases, a shorter life expectancy.
Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries in New Orleans
Everyday activities can cause catastrophic injuries, but some are more common in New Orleans thanks to the city’s road conditions, traffic patterns, and industries.
Whether the injury happened in a car accident on I‑10, a construction-site accident in the CBD, or a slip-and-fall on a historic property in the French Quarter, it’s critical to talk to an experienced attorney who knows how to investigate and build a strong case.
How Catastrophic Injuries Happen
Some of the most frequent causes we see include:
- Motor vehicle crashes (cars, trucks, motorcycles)
- Workplace injuries (construction, maritime industrial)
- Medical malpractice (surgical errors, birth injuries, anesthesia mistakes)
- Slip-and-fall accidents in unsafe areas
- Defective or dangerous products
- Acts of violence or negligent security
In many of these cases, evidence of negligence, such as failure to follow safety regulations, ignoring traffic signals, or defective equipment can be traced back to an another individual or organization apart from the victim. However, liability must be proven for the claim to be successful, and a strong case must be built.
If your injury was caused by someone else’s negligence, contact Douglas & London today to understand your legal rights.
Long-Term Impact on Victims and Families
The true cost of a catastrophic injury isn’t always obvious. It’s not just about unending, expensive medical bills. These are some of the other long-term effects our clients have faced:
- Permanent disability and lifestyle changes
- Need for home and vehicle modifications, as well as adaptive equipment to accommodate acquired disabilities
- Loss of former career
- Loss of independence and quality of life
- Devastating emotional and psychological effects
- Impacts on caregivers and family relationships
Compensation Available for Catastrophic Injury Victims
Catastrophic injury claims are all different. Many factors determine what your claim is worth, such as the severity of your injuries and how they have changed your life. If someone else’s negligence caused your injury, you may be entitled to compensation.
The team at Douglas & London in New Orleans can evaluate your case and pursue maximum compensation for both your short- and long-term needs, including:
- Emergency medical care and hospitalization
- Surgery, rehabilitation, and follow-ups
- Assistive devices and mobility equipment
- Home and vehicle modifications required by the injury
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lifetime care costs
- Strain on families and loss of consortium
Punitive damages may also be available in rare cases involving gross negligence or intentional harm. These are meant to punish especially dangerous behavior and discourage others from behaving the same way.
Louisiana Laws Affecting Catastrophic Injury Cases
Personal injury laws vary by state and can significantly affect your claim. That’s why it’s essential to work with an experienced catastrophic injury law firm in New Orleans familiar with Louisiana laws.
Comparative Fault Laws
Louisiana follows a pure comparative fault system. That means you can still recover damages even if you share partial responsibility, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
For example: If you’re found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in Louisiana is two years from the date of your injury. Missing this deadline could mean losing your right to compensation.
Minimum Liability Insurance and Compensation Limits
Louisiana law requires drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. However, these coverage limits usually are not enough to cover all the costs related to catastrophic injuries.
When damages exceed limits, the individual or organization responsible may be personally liable. Additionally, underinsured/uninsured motorist (UM/UIM) policies or umbrella insurance can help make up the difference. Our team can investigate all possible sources of compensation you may be entitled to receive.
Medical Malpractice Laws
Medical negligence claims must first be reviewed by a state medical review panel before you can file a lawsuit. The process is specific to Louisiana and an essential step for the case to proceed.
Why Choose Douglas & London for Your New Orleans Catastrophic Injury Case
You don’t have to navigate the next steps alone. The attorneys at Douglas & London have extensive experience with complex catastrophic injury cases and can give you the peace of mind you deserve.
We have a track record of substantial verdicts and settlements—over $18 billion recovered for our clients—and the resources to handle expensive, long-term litigation. Working with us gives you access to medical experts and life care planners.
We’re committed to guiding you through each step of the claim process. Our goal is to get you maximum compensation for your care and well-being.
Get a Free Consultation Now
If you or someone you love has suffered a catastrophic injury, contact us now for a free, no-obligation consultation with a top New Orleans catastrophic injury lawyer. There is never a fee unless we win your case.
