Personal injuries in Oregon often happen in accidents caused by others. Unfortunately, these can cause catastrophic harm. Victims may require ongoing, extensive medical care while the severity of their injuries leaves them unable to work, provide for loved ones, or even engage in their favorite hobbies and activities.
You have the right to hold those at fault accountable. Find out more about catastrophic injuries in Oregon and how to get the compensation you are entitled to in a claim.
Common Types of Catastrophic Personal Injuries In Oregon
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 25 million people visit hospital emergency rooms each year as a result of accidental injuries. Car accidents, drowning accidents, fires, falls, and other types of premises liability cases are among the most common causes.
Unfortunately, even a seemingly minor accident can leave victims suffering serious personal injuries in Oregon. In some cases, these could prove catastrophic. Under the Oregon Code, catastrophic injuries typically involve a significant and sustained reduction of prior mental and/or physical abilities, which significantly alter the victim’s life and prevent them from engaging in otherwise normal functioning on an ongoing basis.
Catastrophic injuries represent some of the most severe and debilitating types of medical conditions. These include:
- Loss of hearing or vision;
- Amputation of limbs or other body parts;
- Third and fourth-degree burns, which cause permanent harm to nerves and tissues;
- Crushing injuries, causing internal injuries and damage to extremities;
- Head and brain injuries, resulting in physical, emotional, and cognitive impairments;
- Spinal cord injuries, leave victims with permanent paralysis.
Your Rights In Filing An Oregon Personal Injury Claim
When accidents resulting in catastrophic personal injuries in Oregon happen, negligence on the part of others may be to blame. This means they either engaged in reckless behavior that put you at risk or failed to take reasonable precautions. Victims and their families have the right to hold those at fault accountable.
Depending on the type of accident you were involved in and other circumstances involved, you have two options in seeking compensation for catastrophic injuries;
1. File a claim through the at-fault party’s insurer.
In cases of car accidents, dog bites, fires, falls, or other premises liability claims, the at-fault party may have insurance in place to help compensate you. However, as the costs associated with catastrophic injuries are high, policy limits may not cover your total losses.
2. File a personal injury lawsuit against those involved.
You may be able to file a lawsuit against those at fault through the Oregon Civil Court. This is often the best course of action in catastrophic injury cases, as it can entitle you to additional amounts not otherwise available through insurers.
Get The Compensation Needed To Recover From Catastrophic Injuries
In addition to the catastrophic impacts personal injuries in Oregon can have on your health and mobility, they can also have a devastating effect on your finances. The National Safety Council reports that seeking treatment after even a minor accident can leave you facing tens of thousands of dollars in losses. The costs associated with catastrophic injuries can easily total millions.
When facing this type of difficult situation, be aware that you only have one chance to get the total amount you need to recover. Once you accept a settlement, you waive the right to any future claims. Particularly in cases involving catastrophic injuries, it is important to get the maximum amount allowed by law. This should include:
- Economic damages, which cover all current and ongoing medical costs associated with your injuries, any modifications to the property to account for your condition, lost wages, and future lost income and benefits due to long-term disabilities.
- Non-economic damages, compensate you for pain, suffering, and mental anguish caused by your accident or injuries, lost enjoyment in life, and any scarring or disfigurement.
- Punitive damages, which is an additional amount we can push for if the at-fault party’s behavior was particularly negligent and intentional. This serves both as punishment and as a warning, hopefully preventing similar accidents from happening to others in the future.
Contact Our Oregon Personal Injury Attorneys Today
Catastrophic injuries can have devastating impacts on you and your family, now and for years to come. At Johnston Law Firm, we provide the caring support and comprehensive legal representation you need to get the maximum compensation for your costs. Call (503) 546-3167 or contact our Oregon personal injury lawyers online and request a consultation today.