The Legal Concept of a Catastrophic Injury

There is no strict legal definition of a catastrophic injury. Nowhere in state law is an example given of these incidents. As a result, an injury’s status as catastrophic has nothing to do with whether a party is at-fault for an incident. Nevertheless, it can be helpful to understand the concept of a catastrophic injury when measuring the impact of the incident on an individual’s life. Proving how an injury occurred is only one part of building your case. It is just as important to demonstrate how the incident impacted a person’s current and potential wellbeing. A catastrophic injury is one that will affect a person for the rest of their life. It is also one that severely limits an individual’s ability to earn a living, care for their needs, and enjoy hobbies or time with family.

One common category of catastrophic injuries is damage to a person’s central nervous system. This includes the brain and spinal cord. Injuries to these vital organs can result in paralysis or loss of cognitive function. Similarly, catastrophic injuries can also describe events that cause an individual to lose control over a body part. Amputations of arms or legs or irreparable damage to body parts fall into this category. Finally, third-degree burns that cover a substantial portion of a person’s body are also considered catastrophic.

Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

Get a Free Case Evaluation

Events that May Lead to Catastrophic Injuries

A catastrophic injury could occur at almost any time. Events that may cause these severe injuries include:

Ultimately, it falls to an injured party to show how another person or company’s actions caused their injuries. The extent of the injuries that a person suffers in an incident is irrelevant in this process. Instead, injured parties must prove that another party was at-fault for an accident or intentional act that resulted in their injuries. The legal team at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers is ready to help you with your case. In situations where an accident resulted in catastrophic injuries, we may be able to gather evidence proving that another driver, a property owner, or a medical professional did not take the necessary steps to keep you safe.

In cases where an injury was the result of a criminal act, we can track the case as it moves through the criminal court to determine if a guilty verdict can be evidence in your civil case for compensation. However, you do not need the at-fault party to be convicted of a criminal charge in order to pursue compensation from them in a personal injury claim. It is essential that you act quickly to protect your rights. CC 3493.1 gives you only two years from the date of injury to seek payments in most cases. Reach out to us today at (337) 777-7777 to learn more.

Helping Injured People Protect Their Futures

Proving that someone else was responsible for your injury is only the first part of what a personal injury lawyer will do for you. The second factor is demonstrating how that incident affected your life. In cases that involve catastrophic injuries, the outcome of the legal process may determine your financial future for the rest of your life.

All personal injury cases, including those involving catastrophic injuries, center around a physical injury. An at-fault party may be liable to provide payments for all necessary medical care. This damage may include reimbursement for past costs as well as payments for estimated future care. This may be substantial, as severe permanent injuries may require a lifetime of physical therapy.

No less substantial are the ways that a catastrophic injury can affect a person’s quality of life. Experiencing any injury is a traumatic event, and merely coming to terms with a new reality can be devastating. Individuals who suffer these injuries may deserve payments to make things right. A Lake Charles catastrophic injury lawyer could help your measure these losses and demand proper payment.

However, the law may function to limit your potential compensation. One example is the Louisiana Revised Statutes (RS) §40:1231.2. This statute says that the limit on payments for pain and suffering or other non-economic damages in medical malpractice cases is $500,000. An attorney could work with you to determine the potential value of your case as applied to limitations under the law.

Client Testimonials Hear from locals like you.

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had ...

Mr. DC and Amber have always been available to answer my questions and concerns. I have never doubted that they were working on our side and have had our best interest and our well being as a priority. I would recommend them to friends and family. My case had some extenuating circumstances and they both worked diligently to help us. I am very thankful for their service and dedication to us.

M
Michel Lanclos

New Orleans

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, ca...

Toni is the absolute BEST!!!! Not only is she the best paralegal but she’s also the best person I know. She is so intelligent, knowledgeable, caring, and goes above and beyond for everyone in her life. She is a true gem! To know her is to love her!! Anybody would be lucky to have someone like Toni in their corner.

S
Sarah Jorden

Marksville

I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's,...

I just want to say that Kelby is a wonderful Attorney and will do what ever it takes to make sure you are taking care of. And his Team of Paralegal's, Amber, Toni, Debbie, Alana & Erica are absolutely amazing. You couldn't have ask for better. And to Rachael, she was so sweet the other day when I needed some information about when my advance was going to be ready. Thank you Laborde Earle's Law Firm for always being the Best.

L
Lauren O'Quinn

New Orleans

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions ...

I was very pleased with the attention and detail that was given by Karely with Laborde Earle’s Injury lawyers. She answered all of my questions and concerns, and her professionalism was top notch. Her phone etiquette, and calm and caring attitude was outstanding.

G
Gail

Baton Rouge

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) whic...

Toni at LE is seriously so dedicated and a hard worker! LE is lucky to have this chick. She's so sweet but a little spicy (in a good, funny way!) which is always a breath of fresh air to be around someone who is genuine. She's a doll and anyone who comes into contact with her is a lucky one!

H
Hannah Johnson

Baton Rouge

Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - profession...

Working with Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers was an incredible experience from beginning to end. Jeanne and Kaitlyn were absolutely amazing - professional and always on top of everything. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and made sure I understood every step along the way. My case was resolved better than expected. I can’t thank them enough.

M
Melody Johnson

New Orleans

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking...

Each time I interact with a member of the Laborde Earls team I am always extremely satisfied with the service provided. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mrs. Marsh today. She was extremely knowledgeable in addition to being patient and empathetic. She was able to provide me with the necessary resources and provided me with encouragement throughout the process. I definitely recommend Laborde Earls! Ask for Courtney!

M
Megan Couvillon

Alexandria

Michelle Brouillette is a wonderful addition to the Laborde Earles team.

M
Melanie B.

Courtney Marsh has a positive attitude and great attention to detail in her work!

R
Rhonda C.

Over 1,700 5-Star Reviews

You May Be Entitled to the Compensation You Need to Set Things Right After a Catastrophic Injury

A Lake Charles catastrophic injury attorney is ready to take the lead in your case. The legal team at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers can help to show how a car accident, a slip and fall, medical malpractice, or a defective product was the primary cause of your catastrophic losses. We work on a contingency-fee-basis, meaning that you will not owe us any up-front expenses. 

branded accent

View More Articles Trusted Voices Sharing What Matters

closeup of a car with a crashed hood

Blog Louisiana’s New Comparative Fault Law (2026): What the 51% Rule Means for Your Compensation

If you were injured in Louisiana, a recent change in the law could determine whether you recover compensation or nothing at all. As of Janua...

Read Full Article
woman in neck brace talking to lawyer

Blog Louisiana Sets New Two-Year Statute of Limitations for Tort Claims

Now that Louisiana has set a new two-year statute of limitations on tort claims, injury victims will have more time to take legal action for...

Read Full Article
law statue

Blog Digger Earles Honored With Appointment to GLP-1 Plaintiff Steering Committee

In a significant victory for plaintiffs in the high-stakes multi-district GLP-1 litigation, renowned Lafayette personal injury lawyer Digger...

Read Full Article
big rig car accident

Blog $1,400,000 Settlement for Alexandria Woman in Car Accident

When it comes to being injured in a car accident, choosing the right attorney can be the difference between getting $1,400,000 in 9 months i...

Read Full Article

Guidance you can trust, from people who actually know.

View All FAQs View All Articles

Our Locations Find Your Local Office

Get Legal Help Today Talk to a Louisiana Local Attorney Today

25+ Attorneys Collaboration on every case

Call Anytime Speak to our local team 24/7

(337) 612-6909
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
This field is required.
Send Message
Accessibility: If you are vision-impaired or have some other impairment covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act or a similar law, and you wish to discuss potential accommodations related to using this website, please contact our Accessibility Manager at (337) 223-9925.