What is a San Dimas catastrophic injury claim actually worth to you?
A catastrophic injury claim in San Dimas aims to recover the costs and losses you experience after a severe incident. This includes all your medical expenses, both current and future, lost income if you cannot work, and the reduction in your earning capacity. California law also allows recovery for non-economic harm like physical pain, mental suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, and inconvenience.
The total value depends on the specific facts of your case, the extent of your injuries, and how those injuries impact your life. Factors like liability, available insurance, and the long-term impact on your daily activities influence what can be recovered. Catastrophic injuries often require extensive, ongoing medical care and can permanently alter your ability to live independently.
What kinds of catastrophic injury cases do we handle in San Dimas?
We represent people in San Dimas who have suffered extremely serious injuries due to someone else's negligence. These often include brain injuries, spinal cord injuries leading to paralysis, severe burns, amputations, and permanent organ damage. These injuries typically result in long-term medical care, significant rehabilitation, and a fundamental change in lifestyle.
Our focus is on securing the full resources you need for your recovery, adapting your home, and covering lost income for years to come. We handle cases arising from major traffic collisions, pedestrian accidents, motorcycle accidents, and other incidents where severe trauma occurs. Our firm concentrates on personal injury and employment law, which means we spend all our time working on these kinds of cases. For example, our San Dimas personal injury attorneys also assist those with less severe injuries.
Where does a catastrophic injury claim from San Dimas get filed?
In Los Angeles County, a personal injury case originating in San Dimas is filed in the judicial district where the incident happened. According to LASC Local Rule 2.3 and the General Order re Assignment and Transfer of Personal Injury Cases, effective May 17, 2024, the case is assigned to that district's Personal Injury Hub department. For claims arising in San Dimas, this means your case will typically be heard at the Pomona Courthouse South, located at 400 Civic Center Plaza, Pomona, CA 91766.
Claims against the City of San Dimas, Los Angeles County, or any public transit agency require a specific process before a lawsuit can be filed. You must present a formal claim to the public entity first, adhering to strict timelines and requirements. This process is distinct from a lawsuit against a private party.
How long do you have to file a catastrophic injury claim?
Most catastrophic injury claims in California must be filed within two years from the date of the injury (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1). This deadline applies to personal injury and wrongful death cases. However, if your claim is against a city, county, or any other public agency, you must present a written claim to that entity within six months of the injury (Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2).
The deadline is generally paused while an injured person is a minor (Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 352). However, this pause does not apply to claims against public entities. For those cases, the six-month government claim deadline remains strict, even for minors. Failing to meet these deadlines can permanently prevent you from pursuing compensation.
What should you do next after a catastrophic injury?
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health is the first priority. Even if you felt fine right after an incident, catastrophic injuries often have delayed symptoms. Get a thorough medical evaluation and follow all treatment recommendations. Documenting your injuries from the start is also critical.
- Document the Scene and Injuries: If possible, or have someone do it for you, take photos and videos of the incident scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and any involved parties.
- Do Not Give Recorded Statements: Insurance companies may try to contact you quickly. Do not give a recorded statement or sign any documents without speaking with a lawyer. Anything you say can be used against your claim.
- Keep Detailed Records: Maintain a file of all medical bills, receipts for expenses, lost wage statements, and any other documents related to your injury. Keep a journal of your pain levels, limitations, and how the injury affects your daily life.
- Consult with a Catastrophic Injury Attorney: An attorney can explain your rights and options. This is especially important for complex catastrophic injury cases where future medical needs and long-term impacts are significant. Our team also represents victims of wrongful death in San Dimas, for families coping with loss.
What is it like working with Casa Legal Los Angeles?
Working with Casa Legal Los Angeles means you have a dedicated team focused on your recovery and financial stability. We handle all aspects of your claim, from gathering evidence and negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court, if necessary. Our goal is to allow you to focus on your healing while we manage the legal complexities.
We work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay no attorney's fees unless we win your case — and no case costs either. We cover the expenses of litigation, and you reimburse us only from the successful outcome of your claim. This arrangement allows you to pursue justice without upfront financial burdens. We believe everyone deserves experienced legal representation, regardless of their current financial situation. We regularly help people throughout Los Angeles County, including those in Temple City and Alhambra.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for filing a catastrophic injury lawsuit in San Dimas?
Most catastrophic injury lawsuits in San Dimas must be filed within two years of the injury date, as stated in Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 335.1. However, if a public entity, like the City of San Dimas or Los Angeles County, is involved, you must first submit a formal claim within six months of the injury under Cal. Gov. Code § 911.2.
Can I recover for emotional distress after a catastrophic injury?
Yes, California law allows for the recovery of non-economic damages, which include emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and mental anguish resulting from a catastrophic injury. These damages are a significant component of many severe injury claims because of the profound impact these injuries have on a person's well-being.
What if I was partly at fault for the incident?
California follows a pure comparative negligence rule. This means that if you were partly at fault for the incident that caused your catastrophic injuries, you can still recover damages. Your total compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are found 20% responsible, your award would be reduced by 20%.
Do I have to go to court for my catastrophic injury claim?
Many catastrophic injury claims are settled out of court through negotiations with insurance companies or mediation. However, some cases do proceed to trial, especially if liability is disputed or if the parties cannot agree on a fair settlement amount. We prepare every case as if it will go to court to ensure we are ready for any eventuality.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury in San Dimas, you do not have to face the legal process alone. Contact Casa Legal Los Angeles today for a consultation at 888-585-2529. No attorney's fees unless we win — and no case costs either.