Some injuries change your life for a few weeks or months. Others change it forever. Severe and catastrophic injuries can impact every aspect of daily living—your ability to work, care for yourself, enjoy time with loved ones, and plan for the future. At Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP, we understand that behind every catastrophic injury is a human story. That’s why our attorneys approach these cases with skill, dedication, and compassion for the people we serve.
We’ve helped clients throughout Morristown, Sussex County, and across New Jersey seek justice and financial recovery after devastating accidents. If you or someone you love has suffered a life-altering injury, we’re here to stand by your side.
Understanding Severe and Catastrophic Injuries
The term “catastrophic injury” typically refers to injuries that cause long-term or permanent disability, significant functional limitations, or profound changes in quality of life. Examples include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Severe burns
- Multiple fractures or amputations
- Organ damage
- Vision or hearing loss
- Severe internal injuries
Catastrophic injuries often require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and lifelong care. These are not just personal injury cases—they are cases about rebuilding lives, ensuring financial security, and holding negligent parties accountable.
Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries in New Jersey
Severe injuries can happen in countless ways, but some of the most common causes in our area include:
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Slip and fall accidents
- Construction or workplace incidents
- Defective products
- Medical negligence
- Acts of violence
No matter how the injury occurred, what these cases have in common is that someone else’s negligence—or sometimes multiple parties’ negligence—caused preventable harm.
The Impact of Catastrophic Injuries on Victims and Families
Severe injuries affect far more than just the injured person. Families often face:
- Long hospital stays and ongoing rehabilitation
- Emotional distress and uncertainty about the future
- Significant medical bills and lost income
- The need to modify homes or vehicles for accessibility
- Long-term caregiving responsibilities
We understand these are deeply personal and often overwhelming challenges. Our attorneys work to secure the financial resources needed to cover immediate medical costs as well as future care, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Steps to Take After a Severe Injury
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, the steps you take can significantly affect your ability to pursue compensation:
- Seek immediate medical attention and follow all treatment recommendations.
- Preserve any evidence related to the incident, including photographs, witness information, and documentation of hazardous conditions.
- Avoid making statements to insurers before speaking with a lawyer.
- Contact an experienced catastrophic injury attorney to review your legal options.
How Our Morristown Catastrophic Injury Lawyers Can Help
Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP has decades of experience handling high-stakes injury cases throughout Sussex County and New Jersey. Our attorneys will:
- Investigate the cause of the injury and identify all liable parties
- Work with medical experts and life care planners to calculate future needs
- Handle communication and negotiation with insurance companies
- Pursue full compensation through settlement or trial
- Provide compassionate support every step of the way
We understand that catastrophic injury cases are about more than legal claims—they’re about securing your family’s future and ensuring that justice is done.
New Jersey Law and Filing Deadlines
The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in New Jersey is two years from the date of the accident. There are exceptions for certain cases, especially when government entities are involved, so it’s best to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.
New Jersey also uses comparative negligence rules. If you’re found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your share of fault. This makes careful investigation and legal strategy crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions About Catastrophic Injury Cases
What makes an injury “catastrophic”?
Catastrophic injuries are those that result in permanent disability, loss of function, or severe disruption to daily life.
How is compensation calculated?
Compensation typically includes medical costs, rehabilitation, lost wages, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, and future care needs.
Can more than one party be responsible?
Yes. Many catastrophic injury cases involve multiple liable parties, such as drivers, property owners, manufacturers, or employers.
Do I have to go to trial?
Many cases settle, but we prepare every case thoroughly for litigation to ensure we can fight for full compensation.
Speak With a Trusted Sussex County Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Today
Catastrophic injuries are life-changing, but you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. The attorneys at Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP are committed to helping you and your family secure the justice and financial support you need. Contact our Morristown office today to schedule a free consultation.
