When a loved one suffers a catastrophic injury, life can change in an instant. Families are suddenly faced with medical emergencies, difficult decisions, and overwhelming uncertainty about the future. In many cases, these injuries result from preventable accidents caused by negligence. Understanding when and how a lawsuit may be appropriate can help families protect their loved ones’ rights and long-term well-being.
At Elmore Law Office, we work closely with families across New Hampshire whose lives have been altered by catastrophic injuries. Legal action is not about assigning blame for its own sake. It is about securing the resources, care, and accountability needed to support lifelong changing needs.
What is Considered a Catastrophic Injury
A catastrophic injury results in permanent or long-term impairment, disability, or loss of bodily function. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and ongoing care, and they frequently prevent the injured person from returning to work or living independently.
Common examples include:
- Traumatic brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis.
- Severe burn injuries.
- Amputations.
- Multiple orthopedic injuries requiring repeated surgeries.
- Injuries that cause permanent cognitive or neurological impairment.
The effects of these injuries extend far beyond the injured individual and impact the entire family.
When Families May Need to File a Lawsuit
Not every serious injury leads to a lawsuit, but legal action may be necessary when another party’s negligence caused or contributed to the harm. Negligence means failing to act with reasonable care under the circumstances.
Catastrophic injury lawsuits may arise from:
- Motor vehicle crashes involving negligent drivers.
- Falls caused by unsafe property conditions.
- Construction or workplace accidents involving third-party negligence.
- Defective products or equipment failures.
A lawsuit allows families to pursue compensation that reflects the full scope of harm, not just immediate medical bills.
Who Can Bring a Lawsuit on Behalf of an Injured Loved One?
In some cases, the injured person may be unable to pursue legal action independently due to the severity of their condition. New Hampshire law allows specific individuals to act on their behalf.
Depending on the circumstances, a lawsuit may be brought by:
- The injured person directly, if they are able.
- A legal guardian or conservator.
- A spouse or close family member acting in a representative capacity.
- An estate representative, if the injury later proves fatal.
Determining who has legal standing is an essential first step and requires careful review of the family’s situation.
What a Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit Can Address
Catastrophic injuries create long-term financial and personal consequences that often last a lifetime. A lawsuit seeks to address these realities through compensation that reflects both present and future needs.
Damages may include:
- Past and future medical expenses.
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs.
- In-home care or assisted living needs.
- Lost income and loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Emotional distress and mental anguish.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
In cases involving family members, claims may also address the impact on relationships and daily life.
How Families Can Support Both Recovery and the Legal Process
Families often play a central role in both caregiving and documentation after a catastrophic injury. Keeping organized records can make a meaningful difference in a claim’s outcome.
Helpful steps include:
- Maintaining copies of medical records and treatment plans.
- Tracking expenses related to care and home modifications.
- Keeping notes on daily challenges and limitations.
- Saving correspondence from insurance companies.
- Avoiding premature settlement discussions.
These efforts help ensure the legal claim accurately reflects the injury’s actual impact.
How Elmore Law Office Supports Families Facing Catastrophic Injuries
Elmore Law Office understands that catastrophic injury cases are not just legal matters. They are deeply personal experiences that affect entire families. Our firm takes a comprehensive approach, combining legal experience with compassion and clear communication.
We work to:
- Investigate how the injury occurred.
- Identify all responsible parties.
- Work with medical and financial experts.
- Build claims that reflect lifelong needs.
- Handle insurance and legal communications so families can focus on care.
Our goal is to provide clarity, stability, and advocacy during one of the most challenging periods a family can face.
Contact Elmore Law Office Today
If your loved one suffered a catastrophic injury in New Hampshire due to another party’s negligence, you do not have to navigate the legal process alone. Elmore Law Office is ready to review your situation, explain your options, and help you pursue accountability and financial security for the future.
Contact our Portsmouth personal injury attorney today at (603) 929-1117 or complete our online contact form to schedule a free consultation.