Catastrophic Injuries

St. Clair County Catastrophic Injury Lawyers

Advocating for the Injured in Southeast Michigan

The injuries suffered in an accident can be devastating, with lasting consequences on a person's life. Whether it’s a spinal cord injury suffered in a motorcycle accident, burn injuries from a car accident, traumatic brain injuries suffered in a slip-and-fall, or any other form of catastrophic injury, the victim is going to need a comprehensive financial settlement. Our St. Clair County catastrophic injury lawyers have over 50 years of experience helping people account for all that should go into that settlement.

Call (810) 676-9447 or contact us online today. Since our founding, we’ve recovered millions of dollars for clients, and we would be honored to help you next.

Damages to Include in a Catastrophic Injury Settlement

A settlement that is well-developed and properly thought through will go beyond the surface and consider long-term physical, psychological, and financial impacts.

Here are key categories of damages that should be included in a catastrophic injury settlement:

Immediate & Ongoing Medical Costs

These include emergency treatment, extended hospital stays, multiple surgeries, and specialized care. For example, spinal injuries may require meticulous monitoring, while severe burns might involve expensive skin grafts. Even with insurance, you can be left with hefty out-of-pocket expenses.

Moreover, the costs don’t stop with the initial treatment. Physical injuries could necessitate lifelong care, including regular doctor visits, pain management, and specialized treatments. A settlement should cover these ongoing medical needs to prevent the victim from falling into financial hardship.

Rehabilitation & Therapy for St. Clair County Residents

Recovery from catastrophic injuries often requires intensive rehabilitation. Physical therapy is critical for regaining lost mobility or strength, while occupational therapy can assist with adapting to life’s daily challenges. Settlements must consider the likely duration and frequency of this therapy, which can range from months to years.

Psychological Impact of Catastrophic Injuries

The toll of a catastrophic injury is more than physical. Victims often suffer from severe psychological effects, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, or emotional distress stemming from their condition. These challenges may require ongoing therapy or medication.

For instance, someone who endured a traumatic car accident may experience recurring nightmares or an overwhelming fear of driving. Considering the high prevalence of psychological suffering in such cases, settlements should include provisions for mental health services. These costs encompass regular counseling, psychiatric evaluations, and any prescribed medication.

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Lost Income & Future Earning Capacity

A significant component of damages involves economic losses related to the victim’s inability to work. Settlements must account for both immediate income loss and the long-term impact on earning potential. Many injured people cannot return to their prior jobs or may have to accept lower-paying roles due to physical limitations.

Furthermore, projected career growth must be examined. Was the injured party on track for a promotion or planning to advance their education for a higher salary? Were they building a business that was on a positive trajectory? These factors are important in calculating compensation.

Economic damages should also factor in scenarios such as lost retirement contributions and diminished job benefits over time. Expert witness testimony can help estimate these losses accurately, allowing the settlement to reflect the full scope of what was lost due to the accident.

Home Modifications & Accessibility for Catastrophic Injury Victims

For many catastrophic injury victims, their living environment is no longer functional. Wheelchairs, for instance, can make staircases and narrow hallways impassable. Bathrooms and kitchens may require major alterations to ensure safety and usability.

A proper settlement ought to consider the costs of these modifications. Depending on the home’s layout, this could mean building rampways, installing lift systems, or widening doorways. If the home cannot be adequately adapted, the settlement may include compensation for relocation to a more suitable residence, along with the associated moving expenses. Temporary housing during the transition period might also need to be covered.

Intangible Losses in Catastrophic Injury Settlements

Pain and suffering represent an intangible but equally critical element of a catastrophic injury settlement. These damages aim to compensate victims for the emotional and physical hardships they endure, from chronic pain to the inability to enjoy life as they once did. Perhaps the person can no longer participate in their favorite hobbies or experiences difficulty maintaining relationships with loved ones due to their injury.

Additionally, people may experience frustration or despair over the limitations imposed by their condition. While no monetary amount can undo such suffering, financial compensation helps provide support for both the injured person and their family as they adjust to their new reality.

Lawyers Fighting for Your Future

Rowling, Partipilo & Winston has been a part of the community here in St. Clair County for a long time. We care about our clients like neighbors and we treat them that way. You can count on personalized attention, directly from our attorneys when you work with us. We’re transparent and communicative, and we go to the mat to help injured people get what they need and deserve from their catastrophic injury settlement.

Call (810) 676-9447 to contact our St. Clair County catastrophic injury attorneys today. From our office in Port Huron, we serve all of Southeast Michigan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Catastrophic Injuries

What Should I Do After a Catastrophic Injury?

In the immediate aftermath of a catastrophic injury, there are several critical steps to take to protect both your health and your legal rights. First and foremost, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt medical evaluations not only ensure your well-being but also establish a crucial record of your injuries. Secondly, document the incident as thoroughly as possible. Take photographs, gather witness statements, and collect any available evidence that might support your account of events. This documentation will be invaluable when building your claim.

It’s also vital to refrain from discussing the accident with insurance companies or signing any documents without legal consultation. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your compensation or shift liability unfairly. Contact an experienced catastrophic injury attorney promptly to guide you through the process. At Rowling, Partipilo & Winston, we offer free consultations to help assess your situation and determine the best course of action for pursuing compensation.

Why Is Local Knowledge Important for St. Clair County Catastrophic Injury Cases?

Local knowledge plays a crucial role in catastrophic injury claims as it helps tailor the approach to meet specific regulations, trends, and expectations that are unique to St. Clair County. Attorneys with local experience are often more familiar with regional medical providers, local court systems, and key community resources. This familiarity can streamline legal procedures and facilitate more informed decision-making.

Moreover, local attorneys are adept at understanding the nuances of state and county-level laws, ensuring compliance and a strategic advantage in negotiations. For instance, at Rowling, Partipilo & Winston, our in-depth knowledge of St. Clair County’s legal landscape aids us in crafting strategies that resonate well both legally and culturally, aiding in the successful navigation of catastrophic injury claims.

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Why Choose Rowling, Partipilo & Winston?

Justice for the Injured. Results You Can Trust.

Community-Focused Representation

We live and work in Southeastern Michigan, serving our neighbors with dedication and local expertise. We’re committed to keeping our community safer by holding negligent parties accountable.
Decades of Proven Results

Since 1974, Rowling, Partipilo, & Winston has been Michigan’s trusted personal injury firm, securing millions for victims and helping them rebuild with confidence.
Passion and Commitment in Every Case

At Rowling, Partipilo, & Winston, we handle our own cases—what you see is what you get. From consultation to courtroom, you work directly with the attorneys fighting for your rights.
More Than $10 Million Won

We don’t settle for less. With over $10 million won, we aggressively pursue the full compensation our clients deserve.
Aggressive, Client-Focused Advocacy

We never represent insurance companies—our only focus is fighting for the injured. While insurers minimize payouts, we work harder to secure the compensation you deserve.
Free Consultations

A free, no-obligation consultation is the first step toward getting the justice and compensation you deserve.

What Our Clients Are Saying What Our Clients Are Saying

Fighting for Justice Since 1974

"Thanks again!"
I am so happy I picked the right attorney! You and everyone there stuck by me and my grand-babies. Thank you for not giving up on us. I am so grateful to be able to put some money away for them from their mom… Thanks again!

- Former Client
"Cannot say enough good things!"
Attorney Nicole Winston helped my family so much after a drunk driver flipped our lives upside down. She went to bat against the Auto Insurance, the Disability Insurance and Social Security and won all three cases. We owe her so much!

- Former Client
"Thanks again for being an upstanding lawyer."
Thanks for having been so nice to my mom and me. You’re the only one that believed in her. Last night, I went out for a quiet birthday dinner and I wore the big bling ring that she bought in Florida, so she was with me. Today, I am going to the nursing home to plant a Potentilla for my mother. It’s a new color called Rosebud. I know that you worked really hard for us. Thanks again for being an upstanding lawyer.

- Former Client

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