What Is a Catastrophic Injury Under Arizona Law?
Arizona law doesn’t have a single, formal definition for a catastrophic injury listed in one statute. Instead, the term describes an injury so severe that it prevents the victim from performing any gainful work.
These injuries often cause permanent disability and have a life-altering impact on the victim and their family, requiring extensive medical treatment and lifelong care.
How Much Is My Catastrophic Injury Claim Worth?
The value of a catastrophic injury claim in Phoenix depends entirely on the specific facts of your case. There is no average settlement amount. Factors like the severity of your disability and the clarity of the other party’s fault play a big role.
An experienced attorney calculates the value by adding up all your economic damages, like medical bills and lost future income, and then assigning a value to your non-economic damages, like pain and suffering.
What Happens if the Other Party Blames Me for the Accident?
Arizona follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means you may still recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. The court determines each party’s percentage of fault, and your total compensation award is then reduced by your percentage.
For example, if you’re found to be 20% at fault, you may still collect 80% of the total damages.
How Long Do I Have To File a Catastrophic Injury Claim in Phoenix?
In Arizona, the statute of limitations for most personal injury claims is two years from the date of the injury. Failing to file within two years almost certainly means you lose your right to seek compensation forever.
There are some exceptions, so speak with a Phoenix catastrophic injury attorney as soon as possible to protect your rights.
Why Do I Need a Phoenix Catastrophic Injury Lawyer for My Case?
You need a Phoenix catastrophic injury lawyer because insurance companies have teams of lawyers working to pay you as little as possible. A lawyer levels the playing field. They handle the complex legal work so you can focus on your health.
An attorney from our firm helps by:
- Hiring Investigators: Professionals visit the accident scene, interview witnesses, and preserve key evidence.
- Consulting Professionals: We bring in medical and financial planners to prove the full extent of your long-term damages.
- Building Your Case: We gather every piece of evidence to construct a powerful claim that insurers are forced to take seriously.
Your lawyer negotiates aggressively on your behalf for a fair settlement. If the insurance company refuses to be fair, your attorney can take your fight to court.
