Catastrophic Injury Claims Involving Children: Special Considerations

Catastrophic injuries can have devastating consequences on anyone, but when children are involved, the impact is particularly heart-wrenching. These injuries can disrupt not only a child’s life but also the lives of their families, often leading to a lifetime of medical bills, emotional trauma, and challenges. 

When such injuries occur due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, it is essential to understand the special considerations that come into play when pursuing catastrophic injury claims on behalf of children.

So, here we will delve into the intricacies of catastrophic injury claims involving children and the unique factors that must be considered during the legal process.

What are Catastrophic Injuries in Children?

Catastrophic injuries are those that result in severe, long-term, or permanent disabilities. In children, these injuries often involve the brain, spinal cord, or major organs, leading to substantial impairment in their physical and cognitive functions.

Common catastrophic injuries in children include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Severe head injuries can lead to cognitive impairments, behavioral changes, and motor deficits, impacting a child’s development and quality of life.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can result in paralysis, loss of sensation, and a lifetime of mobility challenges for a child.
• Burn Injuries: Severe burns can cause disfigurement, scarring, and long-term physical limitations, necessitating extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Amputations: The loss of limbs due to traumatic accidents can significantly affect a child’s ability to lead a normal life, requiring adaptive devices and ongoing support.
• Internal Organ Injuries: Damage to vital organs like the heart, lungs, or kidneys can lead to complex medical issues, including the need for transplants or lifelong care.

Special Considerations for Catastrophic Injury Claims Involving Children

The Role of Guardianship

In cases involving children, legal guardians, typically parents, play a crucial role in pursuing catastrophic injury claims. Guardians are responsible for making decisions on behalf of the child, including legal matters. However, special considerations arise when parents themselves may be responsible for the injury or when conflicts of interest arise between the child and their guardians.

Long-Term Prognosis

Assessing the long-term prognosis for a child with catastrophic injuries is challenging. Children’s bodies and brains are still developing, and the full extent of their injuries may not become apparent until they reach certain developmental milestones. It is essential to consult with medical experts who can provide insight into the child’s future needs and potential limitations.

Future Medical Costs

Catastrophic injuries often require ongoing medical care, surgeries, therapies, and adaptive equipment. Calculating the future medical costs for a child with such injuries is a complex task that requires expert analysis. An experienced catastrophic injury lawyer will work closely with medical professionals to estimate these expenses accurately.

Loss of Future Earnings

In addition to medical costs, a child’s catastrophic injury may result in a loss of future earning potential. This aspect must be carefully considered, taking into account the child’s age, education, and the nature of their injuries. Economic experts may be consulted to determine the child’s potential future income and how the injury affects it.

Emotional and Psychological Impact

Catastrophic injuries can have a profound emotional and psychological impact on children. These emotional scars can be just as debilitating as physical ones, affecting a child’s mental health, self-esteem, and quality of life. It’s important to address these issues in any compensation claim and seek appropriate counseling or therapy for the child.

Statute of Limitations

Statutes of limitations vary by jurisdiction and the type of injury claim being pursued. When it comes to children, there may be special rules or extensions of the statute of limitations to allow them more time to file a claim. A catastrophic injury lawyer will be familiar with the specific laws in your jurisdiction and ensure that your child’s rights are protected.

Structured Settlements

In many catastrophic injury cases involving children, structured settlements are preferred over lump-sum payments. Structured settlements provide regular, scheduled payments to cover the child’s future medical and living expenses. This approach helps ensure that the child’s financial needs are met over their lifetime.

Mediation and Negotiation

Given the sensitive nature of cases involving children, mediation and negotiation may be more appropriate methods of dispute resolution than litigation. These processes allow for a more collaborative approach, which can help address the child’s unique needs and reach a resolution that benefits them.

Expert Witness Testimony

Expert witnesses, including medical professionals, vocational experts, and economists, play a crucial role in catastrophic injury claims involving children. Their testimony helps establish the extent of the child’s injuries, future medical needs, and potential financial losses.

FAQs

What types of damages can be claimed in a catastrophic injury case for a child?

Damages in these cases can include medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of future earning capacity, and compensation for the child’s reduced quality of life. The specific damages sought will depend on the circumstances of the case.

Can I still pursue a claim if the injury occurred when my child was a minor but they are now an adult?

In some jurisdictions, there may be a statute of limitations “clock” that starts running when the child turns 18, allowing them to pursue a claim as an adult. Consulting with an attorney is essential to determine if this option is available in your case.

How long does it typically take to resolve a catastrophic injury claim involving a child?

The duration of these cases can vary widely depending on factors such as the complexity of the case, negotiations, and court proceedings. Some cases may be resolved relatively quickly through settlements, while others may take several years if they go to trial.

Is it possible to hold multiple parties accountable for my child’s catastrophic injury?

Yes, it is possible to pursue claims against multiple parties if they contributed to your child’s injury. This may include individuals, businesses, or entities whose negligence or actions played a role in the incident that led to the injury.

What if my child’s catastrophic injury was caused by a defective product or medical malpractice?

If your child’s injury resulted from a defective product or medical malpractice, you may have grounds for a product liability or medical malpractice claim. These cases can be complex, and it’s essential to work with attorneys experienced in these specific areas of law to seek compensation for your child’s injuries.

Conclusion

Catastrophic injury claims involving children present unique challenges that require careful consideration of the child’s physical, emotional, and financial well-being. Legal professionals specializing in such cases must navigate the complexities of guardianship, future medical costs, loss of future earnings, and the emotional toll these injuries take on young lives.

Ultimately, the goal in these cases is to secure the necessary compensation to provide the child with the best possible quality of life and access to the medical care and support they need. While no amount of money can fully compensate for the pain and suffering endured by a child with catastrophic injuries, a successful claim can make a significant difference in their future prospects and ensure they receive the care and assistance they deserve.

At Swartz & Swartz, we specialize in handling catastrophic injury claims involving children. Our experienced team of catastrophic injury lawyers understands the unique considerations that come into play in these cases, and we are committed to advocating for the rights and well-being of the child and their family.

We work closely with medical experts, vocational experts, and other professionals to build a strong case that accurately reflects the child’s current and future needs. Our goal is to secure the compensation necessary to provide the child with the best possible quality of life, ensuring they have access to the medical care, therapies, and support they require.

If your child has suffered a catastrophic injury due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, we are here to help. Contact Swartz & Swartz today to schedule a consultation and discuss your child’s case. Our compassionate and experienced attorneys will guide you through the legal process and work tirelessly to secure the compensation and resources your child needs for a brighter future.