Catastrophic Injuries

Reno Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Millions of Dollars Recovered for Victims

No injuries have a more devastating impact than catastrophic ones. These injuries frequently have life-altering physical and emotional effects, requiring long-term medical treatment and therapy. Examples include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and damage to internal organs, all of which may require specialized care in Reno.

Many victims are left paralyzed or in constant pain due to catastrophic injuries. These severe injuries can prevent you from performing simple daily activities such as walking in a Reno park, driving, or even handling basic personal care independently.

The repercussions are not only physically and emotionally painful—catastrophic injuries also impose severe financial burdens on both the victim and their family, sometimes necessitating expensive modifications to homes or vehicles and ongoing care from local providers.

If another party's negligence caused your injury, our team can stand up for your right to meaningful compensation. We use our decades of experience and thorough understanding of catastrophic injury law to help you move forward from your accident with confidence.

Types of Catastrophic Injuries & Their Impacts

Catastrophic injuries can encompass a wide array of serious conditions that permanently alter an individual’s life. In Reno, common catastrophic injuries seen in auto accidents, falls, and violent incidents include traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal cord injuries, limb amputations, severe burns, and multiple fractures. Each of these conditions often leads to long-term or permanent disability, limiting mobility and impacting a person’s ability to communicate, maintain employment, or care for themselves. 

Victims may require ongoing rehabilitation at facilities like Renown Rehabilitation Hospital or must make adaptive modifications to their Reno homes to regain some independence. As a reputable catastrophic injury attorney in Reno, we consider the specific treatment and recovery resources available locally when building your claim.

Understanding the scope and long-term prognosis for each type of catastrophic injury is crucial in determining the compensation you may be entitled to. For instance, traumatic brain injuries often result in cognitive and physical challenges that demand specialized therapies and lifelong medical oversight, while spinal cord injuries may require costly assistive technology and home accessibility renovations. 

At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, our Reno catastrophic injury lawyers collaborate with medical professionals and life care planners across Northern Nevada to carefully assess both current and future needs. By thoroughly documenting the lasting impact on your quality of life, we work to ensure your compensation reflects every dimension of your recovery and well-being.

Causes of Catastrophic Injuries

Examples of personal injury accidents that can cause catastrophic injuries include:

In every scenario, catastrophic injuries can result from another's negligence or recklessness. Reno’s growing population and active lifestyle make these types of accidents particularly prevalent—roadways like I-80 and I-580 often see high-impact collisions leading to devastating results. Construction sites, casinos, and recreational spots around Washoe County can also be sources of severe, lifelong harm.

It is crucial to remember that insurance companies are motivated by profits. They frequently attempt to discredit or minimize your claim to protect their bottom line. Do not allow an insurance company to get away with a lowball offer by relying solely on their assessment of your damages. Retain the services of an experienced catastrophic injury attorney in Reno who understands how to negotiate with insurance adjusters and accurately assess the full value of your claim for injuries sustained here.

Nevada Laws & Legal Process for Catastrophic Injury Claims

Pursuing compensation for a catastrophic injury in Reno requires a solid understanding of Nevada’s laws and procedural requirements. Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) §11.190, you generally have two years from the date of injury to file a claim. If you do not act within this statute of limitations, you risk losing your right to pursue damages altogether. 

Nevada also uses a “modified comparative fault” standard (NRS §41.141), which means you can recover compensation as long as you are not more than 50% at fault for your injury. If you are partially at fault, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of blame. Our experienced Reno catastrophic injury attorneys ensure compliance with state legal requirements and work relentlessly to safeguard your rights at every step.

Beyond handling strict deadlines, catastrophic injury claims in Washoe County often involve bargaining with large insurance carriers, addressing municipal claims if an injury occurred on public property, and dealing with medical providers to obtain detailed records. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we provide guidance starting from a free initial case evaluation. Our team assists with investigations, evidence-gathering, communicating with insurers, and, when necessary, presenting your case in Reno or Washoe County courts. Attorney Steven J. Klearman takes a hands-on approach with clients, ensuring all your questions are answered and that you remain informed and empowered throughout the legal process.

Understanding Serious Injuries in Reno: Local Resources & Support

Living with a serious injury in Reno brings unique challenges, given the active lifestyle, recreational opportunities, and rapid development in the region. When you suffer a serious injury, either from a vehicle accident, unsafe premises, or workplace incident, you may become unable to participate in the activities you value. Our attorneys work with local resources, such as the City of Reno and the Washoe County Health District, to connect clients with essential services. These may include rehabilitation programs, social work, and mental health therapies necessary for a successful recovery—services many insurance companies may not fully endorse without advocacy from a serious injury attorney in Reno.

Renown Regional Medical Center, a Level II Trauma Center right in Reno, provides advanced care options for catastrophic injury victims. Immediate access to trauma care can greatly influence treatment outcomes, especially in communities like ours that span rural, suburban, and urban environments. In addition to Renown, local support groups and agencies work with both victims and families to adapt to new realities after an accident. 

The Nevada Department of Health & Human Services can provide referrals for long-term support and permanent disability services, while local rehabilitation facilities help maximize each individual’s recovery, making our region better equipped to help those living with catastrophic injuries.

Guiding You Through the Aftermath

Victims of catastrophic injuries and their families often feel overwhelmed by the challenges of recovery, from complex medical treatments to significant financial pressures brought on by long-term care. Medical bills, rehabilitation expenses, lost wages, and necessary home or vehicle modifications can quickly mount, threatening both financial stability and emotional well-being.

Navigating insurance requirements, gathering records, and meeting deadlines—especially after traumatic events—demands an experienced team. If your injury occurred on a busy Reno street, at a business, or as a result of a car accident, you’re likely to face unique Nevada legal hurdles. 

Working with a reputable Reno catastrophic injury lawyer means you have a partner to handle communication with medical care teams, collaborate with local providers, and ensure the collection of robust evidence to support your case. This comprehensive approach relieves some of the burden, allowing you to prioritize healing while our attorneys focus on protecting your rights and securing the compensation you need to adapt in Northern Nevada.

Additionally, Reno is known for its resilient, tight-knit community—a dynamic that may intensify the emotional impact of a serious injury. While friends and family want to help, they might not understand the complexities or how best to assist. Our legal team bridges this gap. We remain committed to helping you navigate each step, explaining your options, and offering guidance personalized to Reno's landscape. With Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, you always have direct, clear communication as you pursue compensation and adjust to life after a catastrophic injury.

Don't let the challenges of a serious injury hold you back. Reach out to us today to discuss your situation and explore your recovery options. Together, we can work toward a brighter future for you and your loved ones.

Maximize Your Compensation: Reach Us at (775) 573-0229 Today

At the Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, our Reno catastrophic injury attorneys are prepared to collaborate with accident reconstructionists, respected medical professionals, and other consultants to build the strongest possible case on your behalf. Steven J. Klearman has over 36 years of legal experience and is recognized for proven advocacy throughout Nevada both in and out of the courtroom.

Reach our office at (775) 573-0229 for a free case review today. We can help you reclaim your life as well as the justice and damages you deserve!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Damages Are Available in a Catastrophic Injury Claim in Reno?

Victims of catastrophic injuries in Reno may be entitled to recover a range of damages that account for both immediate and future losses. Available compensation typically covers medical expenses (past, present, and anticipated future care), lost income, diminished future earning capacity, costs of rehabilitation, home or vehicle modifications, and pain and suffering. In certain cases, the injured party may also pursue damages for loss of companionship or decreased quality of life. 

Nevada law allows for these damages to be recovered through either insurance settlements or court verdicts, depending on the circumstances and the willingness of the opposing party to negotiate. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, our Reno catastrophic injury attorneys perform a detailed review to ensure no category of loss is overlooked, coordinating with life care planners, occupational therapists, and financial specialists so your recovery is as comprehensive and fair as possible.

How Long Do I Have to File a Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit in Nevada?

In Nevada, the statute of limitations for filing a catastrophic injury lawsuit is generally two years from the date the injury occurred. Failing to take legal action within this period may result in losing your right to seek compensation, regardless of how severe or clear-cut your case may be. There are exceptions, such as when the full impact of the injury is not immediately apparent or if the injured party is a minor at the time of the incident. 

To ensure your case is filed timely and accurately, we strongly recommend consulting a catastrophic injury attorney in Reno as soon as possible after your accident. Our team guides clients through each stage of the process, ensuring compliance with Nevada’s deadlines so that your opportunity for recovery is preserved in Washoe County and throughout the state.

How Does Nevada's Comparative Fault Law Affect My Injury Claim?

Nevada’s modified comparative fault statute says injured individuals may still recover damages even if they were partially at fault, as long as they are no more than 50% at fault for the accident. The total award will be reduced by your percentage of fault—so if you are found 25% responsible, your damages are reduced accordingly. If you are more than 50% responsible, you are barred from recovering compensation. 

This legal framework means it is critical to have a skilled catastrophic injury attorney in Reno who can help clearly establish fault. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, our attorneys work methodically to gather the evidence needed to support your claim, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for your interests in court when necessary. Our attention to detail ensures your recovery is maximized and your legal rights are always protected.

A Tradition of Excellence

  • Fast and Caring Service
    Our office is full of friendly, caring, extremely experienced people who will take the time to talk to you about your case when you call.
  • A Strong Track-Record of Favorable Outcomes
    We've handled thousands of personal injury cases with a track record of success. We regularly obtain six and seven-figure results for our clients.
  • Over 37 Years of Legal Knowledge & Experience
    Our Reno-based founding attorney Steven J. Klearman has over 37 years of experience handling serious injury cases in northern Nevada courts.
  • Board Certified Personal Injury Specialist in the State of Nevada
    Fewer than one percent of Nevada attorneys are Board Certified to handle Personal Injury cases.

Awards & Associations

Accolades bestowed upon attorney Steve Klearman.
  • Top 25 Brain Injury Lawyers
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • ALSA
  • AVVO
  • Lawyers of Distinction
  • AVVO Client Success - 2015
  • Attorney.com - Top Attorney Winner 2019
  • AVVO Clients 2017