New Mexico Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

Catastrophic Injury Cases We Handle

At Simon Perdue, we understand how to effectively approach various catastrophic injury cases and advocate for our clients. When you come to our firm for help, we will listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain how the legal process of recovering compensation will work in your case. We recognize you are going through an unimaginably difficult time and will be there to support you every step of the way.

Our New Mexico catastrophic injury lawyers are ready to represent you in cases involving:

• Traumatic brain injuries. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a serious and complex injury type with a spectrum of symptoms and disabilities that stem from a blow or jolt to the head or when an object, such as a bullet or shattered piece of skull, penetrates brain tissue. They can result from various activities or accidents, including falls, assaults, and vehicular collisions. TBIs range from mild concussions to severe and life-threatening injuries that can lead to permanent neural damage or death. The immediate impact of a TBI can include bruising, bleeding, and tissue damage to the brain, which can lead to a cascade of secondary effects such as increased intracranial pressure, ischemia, or brain cell death. Longer-term issues can manifest as cognitive deficits, including problems with concentration, memory, judgment, and emotional regulation. Victims may find it challenging to process information or engage in complex tasks, hindering their ability to return to work, school, or social activities.
• Burn injuries. Burn injuries can be devastating due to the significant pain, scarring, and potential for severe disfigurement they tend to inflict. These injuries can occur in many environments, including the home, workplace, during a vehicle collision, or due to a product malfunction. Burns are categorized by degrees, with third-degree burns being the most severe, often damaging the outer and inner layers of skin and even affecting muscles and bones. The impact of a severe burn injury extends far beyond physical suffering. The visibility of the injuries can result in emotional and psychological distress, deeply affecting an individual's self-image and confidence. The healing process is typically prolonged and involves multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and extensive rehabilitation.
• Spinal cord injuries. The spinal cord is a bundle of nerves that runs down the middle of the back and transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. The consequences of a spinal cord injury can range from partial loss of motor functions to complete paralysis. The severity and location of the injury determine the extent of the impairment: Injuries higher up on the spinal column typically result in more widespread paralysis, for example. The physical impact of a spinal cord injury often includes the loss of muscle function, decreased sensation, and the absence of reflex functions below the injury point. This can lead to secondary health complications such as pressure ulcers, blood clots, respiratory issues, and infections. Daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and breathing can become challenging and may require assistive devices or care support.

What Makes an Injury “Catastrophic?”

Catastrophic injuries are distinct from other types of injuries due to their severe nature and the extensive ramifications they can have on an individual's life. At their core, they are injuries that cause profound and permanent damage to the person affected. The term “catastrophic” is used because these injuries can radically alter one's lifestyle and capabilities at a moment's notice, leaving the individual with disabling conditions that may require a lifetime of special care and accommodation.

One of the primary indicators of a catastrophic injury is the loss of a critical physical function. For example, spinal cord injuries that result in paralysis permanently change a person's mobility and ability to perform daily tasks independently. Similarly, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can lead to cognitive impairments, affecting memory, speech, and the ability to process information, which can prevent someone from maintaining their livelihood or managing their personal affairs.

Unlike more minor injuries that heal with time, catastrophic injuries often necessitate continuous medical treatment, including surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and various other forms of rehabilitation. This ongoing care can be financially and emotionally draining for the injured individual and their family, as they may face a future with costly medical bills and the need for assistance with everyday activities.

The psychological impacts of catastrophic injuries should also not be underestimated. Victims may experience depression, anxiety, and social isolation due to their new limitations. Relationships might strain under the weight of new roles and responsibilities, and the injured person may grapple with a loss of independence and a sense of identity, as they can no longer engage in activities or work that once gave their lives purpose and satisfaction.

If you suffered a catastrophic injury that has radically changed how you live your life, you deserve to recover compensation from those responsible. Our New Mexico catastrophic injury attorneys can review your unique circumstances and discuss your options.

Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries