Catastrophic Injuries

Union County Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Helping Serious Injury Victims Throughout New Jersey

Catastrophic injuries usually cause permanent and severe disabilities. They often require extensive medical care and lead to significant changes in a person's ability to work and enjoy daily life. Our attorney works with clients throughout Union County, Essex County, and the North Jersey region to pursue fair compensation for the life-changing impact these injuries bring.

Union County residents benefit from having a legal advocate who understands the local healthcare system, the courts, and the environments where many catastrophic injuries happen. By representing people across the area, we stay current with details that impact these cases. Our dedicated Union County serious injury lawyer guides clients through their cases so they can focus on recovery.

Call (908) 948-8395 or contact us online to set up a free consultation, either virtually or in person. Our catastrophic injury attorney in Union County, NJ, can support you from start to finish.

Fair Compensation for Catastrophic Injuries

The consequences of catastrophic injuries often last a lifetime. Fair compensation is crucial to give victims and families financial security and support long-term needs.

A fair settlement agreement should address areas like these:

Medical expenses: This includes immediate treatment costs, such as surgeries or hospital stays and long-term physical therapy. It may also need to include mental health treatment.
Future care costs: Many catastrophic injuries involve ongoing expenses, such as live-in nursing care or assistance with daily tasks. Life care plans, created with the help of medical experts, estimate these long-term needs so you aren’t left financially unprepared.
Lost earning capacity: Those who are unable to return to their previous job, or work at all, can pursue damages to recover the income they would have earned over their lifetime. This includes loss of promotions, benefits, and retirement contributions.

These are the tangible costs. However, there are still hidden costs. While money can never replace all that an injured plaintiff has lost, some type of compensation is what the New Jersey court system can offer in an attempt to help the plaintiff rebuild their life.

These intangible damages can include:

Pain and suffering: This addresses the physical discomfort, emotional anguish, and reduced quality of life.
Loss of consortium: Catastrophic injuries often extend beyond the victim to their loved ones. This type of compensation addresses the strain injuries place on relationships, such as the loss of emotional support or a spouse’s affection.

Courts may also award punitive damages. These damages are rare and typically apply when someone suffers serious harm due to reckless behavior or extreme negligence by a corporation or individual. The state of New Jersey caps punitive damages at either $350,000 or five times the amount of the award, whichever is greater.

Attorney Michael Chelland understands how to address the full scope of a catastrophic injury. He works with great professional care to gather evidence, consult experts, and make sure that the damages sought account for both current circumstances and what lies ahead.

Common Causes & Liability in Catastrophic Injury Cases

From a distracted truck driver on Route 22 or a business owner who left a hazard in a store, there are a number of scenarios that can lead to a serious inury.

Other causes of catastrophic injuries inclide:

Car accidents
Motorcycle accidents
Workplace incidents
Medical malpractice
Slip and falls
Acts of violence
Sports accidents

Union County’s hospitals, such as Trinitas Regional Medical Center and Overlook Medical Center, play a vital role in treating serious injury victims. The medical records these types of facilities generate are key to demonstrating how the injury occurred and its long-term impact. Our serious injury attorney in Union County is equipped to gather and organize this critical evidence to build a strong and well-supported claim on your behalf.

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Examples of Catastrophic Injuries

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) often fall into this category, as they can lead to permanent memory loss, cognitive impairments, and challenges with daily functioning. Similarly, spinal cord injuries that result in paralysis – whether partial or complete – are classified as catastrophic because they rob people of mobility and independence. Amputations are another common example, as the loss of a limb often requires significant lifestyle adjustments, prosthetics, and long-term therapy.

What makes catastrophic injuries different from others is their lasting nature. Recovery, when possible, is slow and often incomplete. Most people need years of medical care, therapy, and equipment. Catastrophic injuries also affect families, who may have to help with daily care or shoulder new emotional and financial burdens.

Better Days Are Closer Than You Think

With Michael Chelland, You Have A Warrior On Your Side

We genuinely care about you—your journey, your recovery, and making sure you’re supported every step of the way. Here's what sets us apart.

Personal Attention

We understand how overwhelming this time can be. We take the time to listen and address your concerns with care and understanding.
Strategic Advocacy

We focus on creating practical solutions tailored to your unique situation, keeping your needs at the forefront of everything we do.
Relentless Pursuit of Justice

Our compassionate care turns into steadfast persistence with insurance companies, working toward fair compensation.
Guidance You Can Trust

We guide you through every step of the process with transparency and clear communication, allowing you to focus on recovery.

Advocacy Based on Results

Attorney Chelland works on contingency, meaning that you only pay us a fee after securing a settlement. This arrangement can give clients valuable peace of mind, knowing they won’t pile up legal costs they can’t afford. Clients can also be confident in knowing that their goals and those of their catastrophic injury lawyer are directly aligned—getting the best settlement possible.

Don't handle your case without guidance from our seasoned catastrophic injury lawyer in Union County, NJ. Call our office at (908) 948-8395. We’re available 24/7.

FAQs

What is the statute of limitations for filing a catastrophic injury claim in New Jersey?

In New Jersey, you usually have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. Acting quickly helps secure evidence and keeps your case on track within legal timelines.

Can more than one person or company be held responsible for a catastrophic injury?

Yes. You can seek compensation from all parties that share responsibility. Courts evaluate everyone’s actions to decide each party’s share of fault and financial responsibility.

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"I Felt Like A Priority"
Michael made the entire process seamless. Not only is he incredibly knowledgeable, but he also demonstrates genuine compassion for his clients.

- Tasha D.
"Helpful And Knowledable"
Extremely professional, very helpful and knowledgeable. Mr. Chelland provided me with excellent legal counsel on multiple occasions and I highly recommend!

- Former Client
"Absolute Game-Changer"
His strategic approach, attention to detail, and communication instilled confidence in me throughout the entire process. I felt empowered and supported every step of the way.

- Vanessa P.