Riverdale Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
When someone experiences a catastrophic injury, the harm that results can be so severe that the consequences of their injury last for a lifetime. Typically, these injuries result in scarring, disfigurement, or the loss of function in a part of the body. Fortunately, if the negligence of another was the cause of a catastrophic injury, a seasoned personal injury attorney might be able to help the victim recover compensation from the person responsible.
If you have suffered a severe injury, you deserve to hold the negligent party accountable for your losses. A Riverdale catastrophic injury lawyer could help you get started on your claim and work toward the closure you deserve.
Negligence in a Catastrophic Injury Case
To succeed in a catastrophic injury lawsuit, a plaintiff must prove that the defendant acted negligently when the accident occurred. To prove negligence, a plaintiff must demonstrate the following four elements:
- The defendant owes a duty of care to the plaintiff
- The defendant breached that duty of care
- The breach caused the plaintiff’s damages
- The plaintiff suffered real damages
A Riverdale catastrophic injury attorney might be able to prove negligence in several ways. For instance, they may call eyewitnesses or introduce video evidence that demonstrates how a defendant breached the duty they owed to the plaintiff.
Alternatively or additionally, a legal representative may also provide medical records or expert testimony as proof of damages. It is important to note that proving negligence can be difficult without assistance from a legal professional, so it is encouraged to speak with a lawyer before filing a catastrophic injury claim.
Phases of a Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit
While many catastrophic injury cases settle out of court, the cases that ultimately go to trial follow a similar litigative path. An injury lawsuit begins when the plaintiff files a complaint—a legal document which outlines the allegations as well as the damages sought. Once a plaintiff files a complaint, they must serve a copy of it to the defendant, providing them formal notice that they have been sued and giving them an opportunity to seek the legal representation of their own. In most cases, the defendant files a document that responds to each of the plaintiff’s allegations.
The next stage is the discovery phase, during which both sides review the evidence the other side plans on offering at trial. While discovery often involves written requests, it also may include in-person questioning through the deposition process. Some cases may settle soon after discovery phase comes to an end, but if the case continues, both parties conduct pre-trial motions. Some attorneys file motions early on in the case, while others may be heard shortly before trial. Motion practice frequently narrows the issues heard at trial, but it can also expedite the end of a lawsuit.
Once the parties resolve discovery and any outstanding motions, the trial begins. The plaintiff’s attorney gives their opening statement, and the defense lawyer follows. Once the jury hears all the evidence, they retire to reach a verdict. The civil litigation process can be challenging, especially when a plaintiff’s injuries are severe. An experienced catastrophic injury lawyer in Riverdale could guide an injured victim during this daunting process and advise them through the end of their case.
Speak with a Riverdale Catastrophic Injury Attorney Right Away
When you experience severe trauma, it can be challenging to balance recovery with the other pressures that come with navigating the legal process. Fortunately, a skilled Riverdale catastrophic injury lawyer could take some of this weight off of your shoulders.
An attorney can investigate the accident and build a strong case while you focus on recovery. Call today to learn more about how legal counsel could help you.
