Catastrophic Injuries Due to Medical Malpractice in Denver: Know Your Rights
When we place our health in the hands of a provider, we trust that we will receive safe and competent care.
Unfortunately, that trust is often broken when a medical breach of the standard of care results in life-altering harm and devastating consequences. Catastrophic injuries caused by malpractice may lead to long-term disability, financial hardship, and profound changes in a person’s quality of life.
At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries take on victims and their families.
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury due to a healthcare provider’s breach of standard of care, our experienced catastrophic injury attorneys in Denver are here to help you pursue justice.
What Is a Catastrophic Injury in the Context of Medical Malpractice?
A catastrophic injury is any serious injury that permanently alters the victim’s ability to live independently or maintain gainful employment.
In the realm of medical malpractice, catastrophic injuries typically result from severe failures in diagnosis, treatment, or surgical procedures. Some examples include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) due to oxygen deprivation
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Amputation of limbs due to untreated infection or surgical error
- Permanent organ damage from medication errors or misdiagnosis
- Birth injuries causing cerebral palsy or Erb’s palsy
- Blindness or hearing loss due to negligent treatment
These injuries often require long-term or lifelong care and may involve assistive devices, home modifications, and loss of independence. Victims and their families must also contend with the emotional and financial stress of adapting to a new reality.
Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries in Medical Settings
Medical harm can result from a variety of preventable errors that reflect a breach in the standard of care that may have permanent, life-altering consequences.
Surgical Errors
- Performing surgery on the wrong body part
- Leaving instruments inside the patient
- Anesthesia errors causing brain damage
Misdiagnosis or Delayed Diagnosis
- Failing to diagnose cancer, stroke, or heart attack in time
- Misreading test results or scans
- Treating the wrong condition
Medication Errors
- Administering the wrong drug or dosage
- Dangerous drug interactions
- Failure to consider allergies
Birth Injuries
- Improper use of forceps or vacuum extraction
- Delayed C-section leading to oxygen deprivation
- Failure to monitor fetal distress
Legal Options After a Catastrophic Medical Injury
Victims of medical malpractice in Colorado have the right to seek financial compensation for their injuries. These claims are complex, but with the help of an experienced medical malpractice law firm, it is possible to recover damages for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Assistive devices and home care services
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
In some cases, you may be able to assert exemplary, or punitive, damages.
What Makes Catastrophic Injury Claims Unique?
Catastrophic injury claims are high-stakes cases. Hospitals, physicians, and their insurers often fight aggressively to deny responsibility or limit their settlement.
Unlike minor injury claims, cases involving catastrophic medical injuries require:
- Extensive medical documentation and expert analysis
- Life-care planning to estimate long-term costs
- Vocational assessments to measure future income loss
- A deep understanding of Colorado’s medical malpractice statutes
How We Can Help
At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., we are nationally recognized for our success in complex medical malpractice and injury litigation. Our seasoned trial lawyers have recovered millions and millions of dollars for clients who have suffered life-changing harm at the hands of negligent healthcare providers.
When you work with us, we:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your medical records and the care you received
- Consult leading medical experts to support your claim
- Handle all communications with insurers and hospital legal teams
- Prepare your case for trial and negotiate from a position of strength
- Offer compassionate guidance throughout the process
We understand that no amount of compensation can undo the harm you’ve suffered. However, a successful claim can provide the resources you need to rebuild your life, access appropriate care, and hold the responsible parties accountable.
When Should You Contact a Lawyer?
In Colorado, medical malpractice claims must generally be filed within two years from the date of injury or the date the injury was discovered. There are exceptions, but time is of the essence. Waiting too long can jeopardize your ability to recover compensation.
Colorado requires a certificate of review from a qualified medical expert within 60 days of filing your claim. This makes early consultation with a knowledgeable attorney critical to ensuring compliance with all procedural requirements.
If you suspect that a medical error caused you or a loved one catastrophic harm, don’t wait. A delay could limit your legal options.
What to Expect During Your Case
While each case is unique, the typical process includes:
- Initial Consultation: We evaluate the facts of your case and determine whether a malpractice claim is viable.
- Medical Records Review: Our legal and medical experts carefully analyze the care you received.
- Filing the Lawsuit: We draft and file a detailed complaint with the court.
- Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and take depositions.
- Settlement Negotiations or Trial: We pursue the maximum possible compensation, either through negotiated settlement or jury verdict.
Our legal team will guide you every step of the way, answering your questions and ensuring you understand your rights and options.
Protecting Victims of Severe Medical Harm
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury due to medical malpractice, you are not alone. The road ahead may be long, but you do have options. With the right legal support, you may be able to pursue fair compensation for your losses and take the first steps toward recovery.
At Leventhal Puga Braley P.C., we stand with victims of severe medical harm and long-term disability. We believe in holding negligent healthcare providers accountable and securing justice for our clients.
Speak With Our Trusted Medical Malpractice Catastrophic Injury Attorneys in Denver
You don’t have to face this journey alone. Let our Denver medical malpractice lawyers help you take the next step toward justice, healing, and a more secure future.
Call Leventhal Puga Braley P.C. today at (303) 759-9945 to schedule a no-cost consultation with our leading catastrophic injury attorneys in Denver.