Baltimore Catastrophic Injury Attorneys

How to Prove Liability in a Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit

Merely suffering an injury isn’t sufficient to recover damages in a catastrophic injury claim. Instead, the plaintiff must establish liability by a preponderance of the evidence. This means you must prove that the at-fault party is “more likely than not” responsible for your injuries. 

To meet the burden of proof, you must demonstrate the following elements: 

1. Duty of care. The defendant owed you a legal obligation, such as obeying traffic laws or maintaining reasonably safe premises for guests. 
2. Breach of duty. The defendant breached this duty by acting negligently, such as running a red light or failing to address known hazards in the workplace.
3. Causation. The defendant’s negligence directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries. 
4. Damages. You suffered compensatory harm or damages as a result, such as medical bills, lost earnings, or emotional distress.

While it can feel overwhelming and confusing to navigate the legal process, you don’t have to do it alone. Our firm can work tirelessly to support your claim with robust evidence, such as police reports, medical records, traffic cam footage, witness statements, and expert testimony. 

My Loved One Passed Away Due to a Catastrophic Injury. Can I File a Claim on Their Behalf? 

Losing a loved one due to negligence is a devastating reality for many families. If your loved one passed away due to a catastrophic injury, you may be entitled to recover damages in a wrongful death claim. 

While no amount of compensation could make up for the tragic loss of a friend or relative, seeking justice can offer families a sense of closure, as well as financial relief for funeral and burial costs, lost income, loss of consortium, and other losses. 

Keep in mind that only certain parties are eligible to bring wrongful death claims under Maryland law. This typically includes immediate family members, such as spouses, children, or parents. Our compassionate advocates can work diligently to bring liable parties to justice while your family focuses on grieving. 

What Types of Compensation Are Available in a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

Depending on the specific case, various forms of compensation may be available in a catastrophic injury claim. Some potentially recoverable damages include: 

• Lost wages
• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of future earning capacity
• Permanent scarring or disfigurement

At United Attorney Group, we understand that catastrophic injuries often result in lifelong harm that necessitates long-term care, from in-home assistance to ongoing occupational therapy. Our goal is to recover a comprehensive settlement for all your current and future care needs.

Are Punitive Damages Recoverable in a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

In rare cases involving especially egregious misconduct, the court may also award punitive damages. Unlike other damages intended to compensate the victim directly, punitive damages are awarded solely to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. 

To qualify for punitive damages, you must provide clear and convincing evidence of “actual malice.” In other words, the defendant must have demonstrated intentional wrongdoing, evil motive, or a deliberate attempt to injure. Our attorneys are well-versed in these legal nuances to build a compelling case and advocate for a just outcome. 

I Suffered a Catastrophic Injury When I Was Hit by a City Sanitation Truck Near Patterson Park. Are There Specific Procedures for Filing Against the Municipality? 

Yes. If you were hit by a city sanitation truck near Patterson Park, your catastrophic injury claim may be subject to stricter rules and filing deadlines. Under Maryland law, lawsuits against government entities (including Baltimore City) must be filed within one year, which differs from the standard three-year statute of limitations. Failure to file within this timeframe can bar you from recovering compensation, making it critical to contact our experienced attorneys as soon as possible. 

Don’t pay the price for someone else’s carelessness—contact our attorneys for top-tier representation. Call (888) 447-4962 to schedule a free consultation.