Sarasota Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Representing Clients with Severe Injuries in Sarasota, FL

Catastrophic injuries are often life-altering, resulting in permanent disabilities that require extensive medical treatment and care, rehabilitation, and even lifelong assistance. These injuries are generally severe and may even be life-threatening. They may also result in the loss of limbs, paralysis, and more. Catastrophic injuries can be caused by any type of accident, from car crashes to construction accidents to slip and falls.

At Burnetti, P.A., our Sarasota catastrophic injury lawyers understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a catastrophic injury can have on both the victim and their loved ones. That's why our team works tirelessly to obtain compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

If you or someone you love was catastrophically injured, you may be eligible for compensation. Call (888) 444-8508or contact us onlineto request a free, no-obligation consultation.

What is a Catastrophic Injury?

While the term “catastrophic injury” is not clearly defined in the legal world, it is generally understood to include any injury that results in long-term or permanent disability. These injuries are often severe and life-threatening, as well as life-altering.

Some of the most common types of catastrophic injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Severe burns
• Amputations
• Paralysis
• Organ damage
• Eye injuries
• Ear injuries
• Head injuries
• Neck injuries
• Back injuries
• Multiple broken bones
• Severe soft tissue damage
• Chronic pain
• Toxic exposure

These are just a few examples of the types of injuries that are considered catastrophic. Generally, any injury that is disabling, life-threatening, or life-altering may be categorized as catastrophic. This includes both physical and emotional injuries.

How Are Catastrophic Injuries Caused?

Catastrophic injuries can be caused by any type of accident, whether it is a car crash, a construction site mishap, a slip and fall, a defective product, or something else. In some cases, the negligence or wrongful act of another person or party causes these accidents and the resulting injuries.

At Burnetti, P.A., we represent clients with catastrophic injuries caused by all types of accidents, including but not limited to:

• Car accidents
• Truck accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Pedestrian accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Boating accidents
• Defective products
• Nursing home abuse and neglect
• Workplace accidents
• Premises liability

When another person or a company is negligent, careless, or in violation of the law, they can be held legally responsible for their actions and the resulting injuries. Our catastrophic injury attorneys in Sarasota can help you understand your rights and legal options.

How Do You Prove Catastrophic Injuries in Florida?

Whether you were catastrophically injured in a car crash, a slip and fall, or another type of accident, you will need to prove that you suffered injuries and damages as a direct result of someone else’s negligence or wrongful act. This is true in all personal injury cases, including those involving catastrophic injuries.

There are four key elements to establishing negligence:

• Duty of care: You must prove that the at-fault party owed you a duty of care. For example, drivers owe other motorists, pedestrians, and bicyclists a duty of care to follow traffic laws and drive safely and soberly.
• Breach of duty: You must prove that the at-fault party breached the duty of care. If a driver was texting while driving, for example, this would be a breach of duty.
• Causation: You must prove that the at-fault party’s breach of duty is what directly caused your accident and injuries. If a drunk driver ran a red light and hit your car, and you suffered a traumatic brain injury as a result, this would be an example of causation.
• Damages: You must prove that you suffered actual damages as a result of the accident. This includes both economic and non-economic damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

FAQs About Catastrophic Injury Claims in Sarasota, FL

How do catastrophic injury claims differ from other personal injury claims?

Catastrophic injury claims often involve higher medical costs, long-term care needs, and lost future earnings. These cases typically require extensive documentation and expert testimony to establish the full impact of the injury on the victim’s life.

What compensation can I recover in a catastrophic injury lawsuit?

You may be entitled to compensation for current and future medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded.

How long do I have to file a catastrophic injury claim in Sarasota, FL?

Under Florida law, most personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the injury date (as of the 2023 update to the statute of limitations). However, exceptions may apply, so it's important to consult a lawyer quickly.

What should I do immediately after suffering a catastrophic injury?

Seek medical attention right away. Then, document your injuries, preserve any evidence, and contact an experienced catastrophic injury attorney. Avoid speaking to insurance adjusters before consulting a lawyer.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Florida follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you were less than 50% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Who can be held liable for a catastrophic injury in Sarasota?

Liability depends on the circumstances of the injury. Possible defendants may include negligent drivers, employers, property owners, product manufacturers, or medical providers.

How do I prove the long-term impact of a catastrophic injury?

You’ll need detailed medical records, expert evaluations, vocational assessments, and testimony from doctors or life care planners. These documents help show the full extent of your disability and future care needs.

What role does insurance play in catastrophic injury claims?

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even in severe injury cases. An attorney can help you negotiate with insurers, avoid unfair settlements, and pursue full compensation through litigation if needed.

Do I need a lawyer for a catastrophic injury claim?

Yes. Catastrophic injury cases are complex, involve significant damages, and often face aggressive defense tactics. Our Sarasota catastrophic injury lawyers can build a strong case, gather expert testimony, and advocate for your maximum recovery.

How Our Catastrophic Injury Lawyers Can Help

At Burnetti, P.A., we understand that no amount of compensation can undo the damage that has been done. However, it can make the recovery process easier and more manageable for victims and their families. Our Sarasota catastrophic injury attorneys are here to help you fight for the maximum compensation you are owed.

When you choose our firm, you can expect:

• Compassionate, personalized representation. We know that no two cases are the same, which is why we provide individualized attention and tailor our legal strategies to fit your unique needs and goals.
• Unwavering dedication and advocacy. We are not afraid to go to trial and can fight for you in court if necessary.
• Strong communication and regular updates. We will keep you informed about any and all developments in your case and can answer your questions as they arise.
• No fees unless we win your case. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means there are no upfront costs for you and you do not owe any attorneys’ fees unless/until we successfully recover compensation for you.

Call (888) 444-8508or submit an online case evaluation formto get started with a complimentary consultation.