An injury is classified as catastrophic when it leaves a victim with long-term consequences and life-changing impacts. A catastrophic injury may involve the spinal cord, spine, skull, or brain. Catastrophic injuries also include serious burns, injuries involving the lungs and heart, and certain types of birth injuries. In other words, catastrophic injuries...

Federal law defines “catastrophic injury” as an injury with direct and proximate consequences that permanently prevent an individual from performing any gainful work. In other words, a catastrophic injury is so serious that it leaves the victim with permanent damage. These types of injuries, which often involve damage to the brain or...