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4 Entities You Can Sue for Catastrophic Injuries

While most personal injury cases involve some kind of harm coming to the plaintiff as the result of another’s alleged negligence, some include catastrophic injuries that cause permanent and gravely serious physical problems. If you or a loved one were hurt in this type of incident, you may want to understand who can be held responsible so you can name them properly as you build a personal injury lawsuit.

1. Business owners 

Individuals who run a business are generally responsible for their employees’ behavior when workers are on the clock. They can also be held accountable if their establishment does not meet safety or local coding laws. As such, if you lose a limb or become paralyzed due to a business owner’s negligence, you may be able to take him or her to court.

2. Individual motorists 

Permanent spinal injuries are not uncommon during a car wreck, and if the other driver was distracted, drunk, or driving aggressively, you can file suit against that motorist or his or her insurance company. If you can prove especially reckless behavior on the part of the defendant, you may be able to sue for punitive damages. This type of compensation punishes the guilty party for their behavior.

3. Product Manufacturers 

Vehicles, household products, and even children’s toys can pose a risk if they are not assembled properly or have a dangerous design flaw. In this case, catastrophic injuries may include back and neck injuries gained in an accident with a faulty vehicle, serious burns from products that overheat or start on fire and head trauma from a fall, such as from an old or uninspected escalator. You may be able to sue the product manufacturer in these cases, especially if the company knew about the risks of a certain product but failed to recall it.

4. Doctors and Surgeons 

Medical negligence can cause lifelong injuries for an infant during birth and for anyone who undergoes a medical procedure. The improper use of medical equipment could result in permanent brain damage or cognitive issues that may affect your ability to walk or speak. While medical negligence can be more difficult to prove than other types, it may still be possible to gain compensation if you act swiftly.

Suffering a catastrophic injury due to the negligence of another can change your life forever, but you do not have to endure the aftermath alone. Speak to a lawyer, like a personal injury lawyer today for further assistance or to schedule an initial appointment.