Catastrophic Injury Lawyers in Seattle Provide Strong Advocacy

Washington firm handles cases arising from serious accidents

At Mann & Kytle, PLLC, we are Seattle personal injury lawyers who have an extensive history successfully handling claims where the victim has suffered catastrophic harm. These cases typically require significant medical evidence and determined advocacy to counter defendants and insurance companies who are reluctant to pay damages that can run into the millions of dollars. Whatever your catastrophic injury claim entails, our firm is ready to stand up for your rights.

What is a catastrophic injury?

There might not be an official technical definition, but catastrophic injuries usually involve substantial physical harm that affects the victim’s life for a long period of time, if not permanently. Putting a dollar amount on future medical costs and lifestyle changes stemming from the injury can be very complex. Our background in these matters helps clients gain clear guidance about what lies ahead.

What to do after a catastrophic injury?

The actions that are taken following a catastrophic injury can have a substantial effect on the outcome of your legal claim. If someone is at the scene and physically able to help without compromising anyone’s safety, here are some things that can be done strengthen your case:

• Get the names and contact information of the parties and everyone who witnessed the incident.
• Contact the necessary first responders. When it becomes available, obtain a copy of the police report and any other official documents describing what occurred.
• Take pictures of injuries and property damage, and keep documents, parts, and other evidence safe and secure.
• Keep a diary with dated entries discussing your condition, medical treatments and the effects of your catastrophic injury.
• Get legal advice from a reputable firm as soon as possible and ask for help with the physical, emotional and financial harm stemming from your accident.

We know how challenging a severe injury can be and are proud that we have been able to make a positive difference in the lives of many injured clients and their families.

Examples of catastrophic injuries

A catastrophic injury can strike any part of the body. Medical conditions that frequently result from serious accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Paralysis and other types of spinal cord injuries
• Severe burns
• Neck and back damage, including ruptured discs
• Loss of body function
• Limb amputation
• Internal organ failure
• Permanent disfigurement
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Sometimes, fatal accidents occur and we handle wrongful death claims so that surviving loved ones can obtain compensation for final expenses, income the decedent would have earned and other damages. In all of these cases, we are honored to work hard for people who are trying to move forward after their lives have been forever changed.

Common causes of catastrophic accidents in Seattle

Our accomplished personal injury attorneys handle all types of catastrophic injury litigation, including matters involving a vehicle crash or workplace accident. If you were hurt in a car, truck or motorcycle collision, we’ll guide you through the insurance claims process and advise you on your options if the at-fault driver lacks sufficient coverage. In cases arising from defective products, we have the skill and determination to take on negligent manufacturers and other parties who contributed to your injury.  

Types of negligence that lead to catastrophic injuries

A catastrophic injury can result from a brief failure to take reasonable care, a product that is manufactured incorrectly or a refusal to address a dangerous condition. Even when the facts seem clear, defendants, their lawyers and insurance carriers might fight hard to avoid their legal responsibility due to the high damage amounts associated with catastrophic cases. We find creative, effective ways to prove defendants’ fault. Don’t be dissuaded from filing a lawsuit because you might bear partial blame for the accident. You can still win an award at trial, but the recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

Recoverable damages in Seattle-area injury claims

Properly assessing the long-term effects of a severe injury can be a complicated task, possibly requiring the development of a “life care plan” that projects the victim’s future needs. Our accomplished attorneys draw on decades of experience to determine how much a plaintiff should demand to cover medical costs, lost income, rehabilitation expenses and modifications that must be made to a victim’s home. We can also explain how to calculate noneconomic damages such as compensation for pain and suffering, mental anguish and permanent disfigurement. If your case goes to trial, we will work aggressively to maximize these damages. Otherwise, they can serve as a starting point for settlement discussions.

Contact a Washington lawyer for a consultation about your catastrophic injury case 

Located in Downtown Seattle, Mann & Kytle, PLLC pursues appropriate compensation for catastrophic injury victims throughout Washington State. Please call 206-457-2057 or contact us online to make an appointment. We offer free initial consultations for personal injury clients.