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Strong Advocacy for the Seriously Injured

Severe injuries often lead to permanent disability, long-term care needs, and overwhelming financial stress. Victims and their families may feel like their lives have been turned upside down overnight.

At Staver, we provide more than just legal representation. We guide you through every step of the recovery process, from coordinating with doctors to negotiating with insurance companies and, if necessary, taking your case to trial. We are committed to helping you secure the resources you need to move forward.

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We Get Results in Chicago Catastrophic Injury Cases

Our Chicago catastrophic injury attorneys fight hard every day for clients whose lives have been changed by devastating accidents. We’ve handled cases involving life-altering trauma, from spinal cord and brain injuries to severe burns and amputations, and have recovered millions in compensation on behalf of those we represent.

We’ve helped thousands rebuild after tragedy, and we’ll do the same for you.

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Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries

What Causes Catastrophic Injuries?

Catastrophic injuries can result from many different situations, each bringing unique challenges.

Aftermath of a car accident in Chicago

Motor Vehicle Accidents

Car, truck, motorcycle, and pedestrian accidents are some of the most common causes of catastrophic injuries in Chicago. Victims may face spinal cord injuries, brain trauma, amputations, or other life-altering conditions.

Workplace & Construction Accidents

Serious accidents on job sites—especially in construction—can cause severe burns, crush injuries, or permanent disability. In addition to workers’ compensation, you may have a third-party claim against negligent contractors or equipment manufacturers.

Defective Products

Product liability can cause devastating injuries when consumer products fail due to poor design or manufacturing defects. We hold negligent manufacturers accountable for the harm their unsafe products cause.

Medical Malpractice

Medical malpractice cases surface when doctors, hospitals, or other medical providers fail to meet the standard of care, and patients may suffer catastrophic injuries, such as brain damage or birth injuries. Our attorneys work with experts to pursue justice for victims of medical negligence.

Wrongful Death & Life-Altering Loss

If a catastrophic injury leads to a fatality, families may have the right to file a wrongful death claim. We help grieving families seek accountability, closure, and financial stability for the future.

INJURIES WE HANDLE

Types of Injuries We Handle in Chicago

Abdominal Injuries

Damage to internal organs can require emergency surgery and ongoing monitoring. Abdominal injuries often lead to infections, internal bleeding, or other serious complications that make recovery especially difficult. Our attorneys work to ensure that the long-term impact of abdominal trauma is fully accounted for in your claim.

Broken Bone Injuries

Fractures can take weeks or even months to heal, keeping victims out of work and limiting mobility. Severe breaks may require surgery, metal hardware, or repeated medical procedures. Our broken bone attorneys fight to recover compensation for medical costs, rehabilitation, and lost wages while you focus on healing.

Chest Injuries

Chest trauma can result in broken ribs, lung damage, or heart injuries that make breathing and movement painful. Victims often face long hospital stays and extensive treatment to regain stability. Our team makes sure these life-threatening injuries and their lasting consequences are properly valued in a claim.

Degloving Injuries

Degloving injuries are among the most traumatic soft tissue injuries, where skin and tissue are torn away from muscle or bone. These injuries typically require reconstructive surgery and skin grafts and leave victims with permanent scarring or disability. We help ensure your settlement reflects both the physical and emotional toll of this devastating injury.

Head, Brain & TBI Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries can affect memory, speech, balance, and overall quality of life. Even a concussion can have long-term consequences, while severe TBIs may require lifelong care. Our attorneys work with medical experts to prove the impact of brain injuries and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Injuries to Children

When a child suffers a catastrophic injury, the consequences are often lifelong, affecting both development and daily living. Parents may face overwhelming medical costs and uncertainty about their child’s future needs. We fight for resources to cover medical care, therapy, and support so children and families can focus on recovery.

Injuries to the Face

Facial injuries, including fractures, eye damage, and scarring, often cause both physical pain and emotional trauma. Treatment may involve multiple surgeries, dental care, or reconstructive procedures. We understand the lasting impact of these injuries and work to hold negligent parties accountable.

Neck & Back Injuries

Neck and back trauma can involve whiplash, herniated discs, or chronic pain that disrupts work and daily activities. These injuries sometimes require surgery and months of rehabilitation. Our attorneys ensure that the long-term limitations of spinal or soft tissue damage are included in your claim.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Torn ligaments, tendon damage, and muscle injuries may not always be visible, but can be just as debilitating as broken bones. Victims of soft tissue injuries often face reduced mobility, lasting pain, and difficulty returning to normal activities. We make sure insurers recognize the seriousness of these injuries and their effect on your life.

Loss of Limb Injuries

Amputations or crushed limbs are permanent, life-altering injuries that affect nearly every aspect of daily living. If a loss of limb injury has occurred, victims often need prosthetics, mobility devices, or home modifications to adjust. Our lawyers fight to secure compensation for both immediate costs and the lifelong impact of limb loss.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal cord trauma can lead to partial or total paralysis, requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation. These injuries often result in permanent disability and dramatic changes to independence and quality of life. We work with experts to calculate lifetime care needs and pursue the maximum recovery possible.

Disc Injuries

Bulging, ruptured, or herniated discs can cause sharp pain, numbness, or limited movement. These injuries often require surgery, physical therapy, or injections to manage symptoms. Our attorneys make sure your claim reflects both the medical costs and the daily impact of disc damage.

Shoulder Injuries

Rotator cuff tears, dislocations, and other shoulder injuries can make lifting, carrying, or performing even simple tasks difficult. Many victims need surgery or months of therapy before regaining strength. We help you recover compensation for the pain, treatment, and limitations caused by shoulder trauma.

Upper Back Pain

Chronic pain in the upper back is often tied to disc injuries, nerve damage, or soft tissue trauma. It can interfere with work, sleep, and overall quality of life. Our attorneys work to connect your pain to the accident and ensure you are compensated for the medical care and long-term impact.

Scars & Disfiguremen

Scarring and disfigurement after an accident can leave more than physical marks. Whether caused by burns, lacerations, or surgical complications, these visible injuries often require ongoing care and reconstructive treatment. Our Chicago injury attorneys help link your disfigurement to the accident, document its long-term effects, and pursue full compensation for medical costs, lost income, and emotional distress.

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Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C. represented me after I was hit from behind in July 2017. The staff at Staver were compassionate, understanding, and very professional. I was updated on my case status upon my request, and all of my concerns were addressed in a timely manner. My case was settled, and I received my settlement money within six months. I would definitely recommend Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C.

angela callier-harris

★★★★★

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Award-Winning Catastrophic Injury Attorneys Working for You

Our awards reflect our dedication to helping clients recover after life-changing injuries. With each recognition, we strengthen our reputation as leaders in representing Chicago’s catastrophic injury victims. Our top business ratings demonstrate our commitment to client service, and our inclusion among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in America shows that we’re fierce advocates both in and out of the courtroom.

Our Recognition & Reputation Speaks Volumes.

Jared Staver: Named 2024 SuperLawyer
Tyler Kobylski: Named 2024 SuperLawyer
Patrick Gill: Super Lawyers Rising Star
Melanie Buckmaster: Super Lawyers Rising Star
Better Business Bureau A+ Rating
American Association of Personal Injury Attorneys
The AV Peer Rating
Top 100 Trial Lawyers of America
The National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys
Multi-Million Dollar Advocates
National Association of Distinguished Counsel
Attorney & Practice Magazine's Top 10 Personal Injury Law Firm

Visit our Awards Page

CHICAGO CATASTROPHIC INJURY DETAILS

The Complexity of Catastrophic Injury Cases

Catastrophic injury cases are rarely straightforward. They often involve multiple parties, extensive medical documentation, and highly contested legal issues.

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Car accident victim gives statement about their auto accident

Long-Term Medical Needs

Victims may require surgeries, rehabilitation, home modifications, assistive devices, or lifelong care. We work closely with medical experts to ensure projected future costs are included in your claim.

Economic & Non-Economic Damages

Your losses may extend far beyond medical bills. Our attorneys carefully calculate lost income, reduced earning capacity, damages for pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Multiple Liable Parties

Many catastrophic injuries involve more than one responsible party. We investigate thoroughly to identify all liable individuals and companies, whether employers, property owners, or product manufacturers.

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STEPS TO TAKE AFTER A CATASTROPHIC INJURY

What to Do After a Catastrophic Injury

Get Medical Care Right Away

Your health and safety should always come first. Even if your injuries don’t seem severe, some conditions worsen over time without treatment. Seeking prompt medical care not only protects you physically but also creates vital records that support your case.

Collect Evidence

Document the accident scene whenever possible by taking photos, gathering contact information from witnesses, and preserving any physical evidence. Keeping copies of medical records, accident reports, or insurance correspondence can also be extremely helpful. The more information you have, the easier it is for your attorney to build a strong case.

Don’t Accept Quick Settlements

Insurance companies may try to pressure you into accepting a fast payout after a serious accident. These early offers often fail to cover the full cost of medical treatment, lost wages, and long-term needs. Always talk to an experienced lawyer before agreeing to any settlement so you don’t risk giving up the compensation you truly deserve.

Call a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

The sooner you contact an attorney, the better your chances of protecting your rights and preserving critical evidence. A catastrophic injury lawyer can handle communication with insurers, gather expert testimony, and build a strategy tailored to your situation. At Staver, we fight to maximize your recovery so you can focus on healing.

Compensation for Catastrophic Injury Victims

If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, you may be entitled to compensation such as:

  • Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs.
  • Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery and reduced earning capacity in the future.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
  • Loss of Consortium: Damages for the impact on relationships with loved ones.
  • Wrongful Death: When a catastrophic injury leads to a tragic loss of life.
  • Punitive Damages: In cases involving extreme negligence or misconduct.

At Staver, we work with medical and financial experts to fully document your losses and demand the maximum compensation possible.

Who’s Responsible in a Catastrophic Injury Case?

Determining fault in catastrophic injury cases can be complicated, especially when multiple parties or factors are involved. Liability may extend beyond the person or company directly involved in the accident, and understanding the right legal theory is crucial to securing full compensation.

Negligence

This is the most common basis for a personal injury claim. To prove negligence, we must show that a person or entity failed to exercise reasonable care, directly causing your injury. Examples include careless drivers, property owners who ignore hazards, or contractors who violate safety regulations.

Strict Liability

In certain cases, such as defective products or dangerous activities, parties are held responsible regardless of intent or care. Manufacturers, designers, or distributors may be legally accountable even if they did not act negligently. This ensures victims can seek compensation when harm results from inherently unsafe products or practices.

Vicarious Liability

Employers can be held responsible for their employees’ actions if those actions occurred during the course of employment. This legal principle is often applied in workplace accidents, delivery driver incidents, or professional negligence, where the employee’s conduct leads to serious injury.

Our attorneys have extensive experience investigating complex accidents, identifying every potentially liable party, and building strong cases that hold all responsible entities accountable. We leave no stone unturned to ensure your rights are fully protected and your claim for damages is comprehensive.

ILCATASTROPHIC INJURY QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

FAQs: Protecting Your Rights After a Catastrophic Injury

How Long Do I Have to File a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

Illinois law generally gives you two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury claim. However, depending on the circumstances, some exceptions may shorten or extend this period. Speaking with an attorney promptly ensures your claim is filed on time and your rights are protected.

What Happens If I Was Partially at Fault for My Injury?

Illinois follows modified comparative negligence, which means you can still recover damages even if you share some responsibility for the accident. Your percentage of fault will reduce your compensation, but you are not automatically barred from recovery. An experienced attorney can help assess your case and minimize the impact of partial fault on your claim.

Will My Catastrophic Injury Case Go to Trial?

Many catastrophic injury cases are resolved through settlements, especially when liability is clear. However, some cases do go to trial, particularly when the injuries are severe or insurers refuse to offer fair compensation. At Staver, we prepare every case as if it will go to court to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.

Why Are Medical Records So Important in a Catastrophic Injury Case?

Medical documentation is critical for proving the severity of your injuries and the need for ongoing care. Detailed records, including doctors’ notes, test results, and treatment plans, help establish a direct link between the accident and your injuries. Strong documentation also strengthens your compensation claim and supports negotiations or litigation.

What Qualifies as a Catastrophic Injury?

A catastrophic injury results in permanent or long-term disability, disfigurement, or significant impairment. Examples include spinal cord injuries, severe burns, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, and other life-altering conditions. These injuries often require extensive medical care and profoundly impact daily life, making them distinct from typical personal injuries.

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WHAT OUR LAW FIRM OFFERS

Why Choose Staver for Your Catastrophic Injury Case

At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, we understand that catastrophic injuries are life-altering for both victims and their families. That’s why we provide personalized attention, compassionate guidance, and aggressive advocacy for every client. Over the years, our team has recovered millions of dollars for clients across Chicago, helping them cover medical expenses, lost income, and long-term care.

When you work with us, you get more than just legal representation; you get a dedicated team committed to every aspect of your recovery:

  • A team that answers your calls 24/7: We know emergencies don’t keep office hours. Our attorneys and staff are available to answer your questions, provide updates, and guide you through the process whenever you need us.
  • Experienced trial lawyers who won’t back down from insurers: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, even in the most serious cases. Our trial-tested attorneys have the knowledge, skill, and tenacity to stand up to insurers and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
  • A client-focused approach where you always know the status of your case: From the first consultation to settlement or trial, we make sure you understand your options, the steps being taken, and the strategy behind every decision. You are never left in the dark while we advocate for your future.

At Staver, our goal is not just to win cases, but to provide peace of mind, guidance, and results that help you and your family move forward after a life-changing injury.

Protect Your Rights After a Catastrophic Injury. Call Staver Today.

If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury in Chicago, don’t face the future alone. Our experienced attorneys will fight for the compensation you need and deserve.

We offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee, meaning you pay nothing unless we win for you. Call (312) 236-2900 today or fill out our online form to get started

Jared Staver
Ally. Advocate. Advisor.
Attorney Jared Staver

We Eliminate Risk For Chicago Injury Victims

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(312) 236-2900
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