Columbia Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Sustained a Catastrophic Injury Caused by Negligence in Columbia, SC?

If you or a loved one has suffered a life-altering injury, you need a dedicated legal team that understands the stakes. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our experienced Columbia catastrophic injury attorneys fight for the justice and compensation victims deserve. Catastrophic injuries can permanently alter every aspect of your life—from your health to your ability to work or enjoy daily activities. We are here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape and secure the support you need for a better future.

Call (803) 599-2207 or contact us online today to schedule your free consultation with our Columbia catastrophic injury lawyers. 

What is a Catastrophic Injury?

A catastrophic injury is a severe physical injury that has long-term or permanent effects on a person’s life. These types of injuries typically result in lasting disability or require significant and ongoing medical care. Unlike other personal injury claims, catastrophic injuries often involve complex medical evaluations, higher financial stakes, and long-term care planning.

Under South Carolina law, catastrophic injuries can warrant more significant compensation due to their profound impact on quality of life, earning potential, and the need for lifelong medical assistance.

Common Types of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries come in many forms, often stemming from serious accidents such as vehicle crashes, workplace incidents, or medical malpractice. Some of the most common include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): These can result from blunt force trauma, falls, or car accidents. TBIs may cause memory loss, cognitive impairment, personality changes, and loss of motor functions.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis, including paraplegia or quadriplegia. These injuries often require lifelong mobility assistance and extensive rehabilitation.
• Severe Burn Injuries: Burns that cover large portions of the body or affect deep tissue layers can lead to disfigurement, chronic pain, infections, and emotional trauma.
• Amputations: Losing a limb can permanently impact a person's ability to work or perform daily activities. It also often involves emotional and psychological consequences, as well as the need for prosthetics and occupational therapy.
• Multiple Fractures and Crush Injuries: In high-impact accidents, victims may sustain multiple broken bones or crush injuries that require numerous surgeries and long-term physical therapy.
• Vision or Hearing Loss: Loss of sight or hearing due to trauma or negligence is life-altering and can prevent an individual from maintaining employment or independence.

If you've experienced any of these injuries due to someone else’s negligence, the team at Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC is ready to help.

Long-Term Effects of Catastrophic Injuries

Catastrophic injuries don't just cause physical damage—they often lead to a lifetime of medical, emotional, and financial burdens.

• Medical Costs: Victims may require ongoing treatments such as surgeries, physical therapy, psychological counseling, and home health care. These expenses can quickly escalate into hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars over a lifetime.
• Loss of Income: Many catastrophic injury victims are unable to return to their previous jobs—or work at all. Lost wages and diminished earning capacity are often major components of a catastrophic injury claim.
• Emotional and Psychological Impact: Depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and grief over lost independence are common in catastrophic injury survivors.
• Family Burden: The victim’s loved ones often take on caregiving roles, which can strain relationships and finances.

Columbia Catastrophic Injury Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a catastrophic injury claim in South Carolina?

In most cases, the statute of limitations is three years from the date of the injury. However, certain exceptions may apply, especially in cases involving government entities or delayed diagnoses. It's critical to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible.

What damages can I recover in a catastrophic injury lawsuit?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost income and reduced earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability
• Home modifications or assistive devices

What if I were partially at fault for the accident?

South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages as long as you were less than 51% at fault for the incident. Your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How much is my catastrophic injury claim worth?

Each case is unique. Factors that influence the value of a claim include the severity of your injuries, medical costs, impact on your life and career, and the level of negligence involved.

How Our Columbia Catastrophic Injury Attorneys Can Help

When you choose Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, you get a legal team with the resources, experience, and compassion needed to fight for your rights. Here's what we do:

• Investigate thoroughly: We gather all evidence, including medical records, accident reports, and witness statements.
• Consult medical experts: We work with top physicians and life-care planners to understand the full scope of your injury and future needs.
• Handle insurance negotiations: We push back against insurance companies that try to minimize or deny valid claims.
• Go to trial if necessary: If a fair settlement isn't offered, we are prepared to present your case in court.

Our mission is to make sure you and your family are protected, both financially and emotionally, for the road ahead.

Contact us today at  (803) 599-2207 for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win your case.