What Happens When an Accident Results in Permanent Disability?

 Posted on October 31, 2025 in Personal Injury

Nobody can predict when and where an accident will occur, least of all the accidents that result in long-term, life-changing damage. When you suffer permanent, catastrophic damage due to another party’s negligence, you deserve a remedy for your losses. A Cook County, IL personal injury attorney can shoulder the burden of investigating your claim while giving you a clear idea of what your damages are worth.

At Gruzmark Law, Ltd., we have represented victims of spinal cord injuries and head trauma, supporting clients through careful negotiation and fierce representation in trial when needed. If you have suffered a catastrophic injury because somebody else was careless, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm for legal assistance.

What is a Catastrophic Injury?

In general, catastrophic injuries refer to injuries that have traumatic, usually lifelong consequences. They affect your ability to work or navigate your daily life, possibly necessitating special accommodations or continuing care. Common examples of catastrophic injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries, which can affect memory and problem-solving skills

• Spinal cord injuries, which may result in varying degrees of paralysis

• Disfiguring burns

• Losses of limbs

Liable insurance companies often try to downplay the extent of your injuries or the impact they have on your life, which is why it is important to keep a record of all medical documentation after your accident.

What Kind of Damages Can You Get for Catastrophic Injuries?

A catastrophic injury usually comes as a serious blow to your finances, often in more ways than one. The costs of surgery easily exceed tens of thousands of dollars, and the need for treatment and care usually persists long after the initial accident. Furthermore, some catastrophic injuries leave you unable to return to your job, if you are even able to work at all, threatening your livelihood.

Fortunately, a personal injury claim can address all of these economic damages (735 ILCS 5/2-1115.2). Our attorneys will help you negotiate for appropriate compensation for medical bills, loss of earning potential, and related losses. If needed, we are also willing to proceed to litigation on your behalf.

Can I Be Paid for My Pain and Suffering in a Catastrophic Injury Claim?

The true toll of a catastrophic injury cannot always be measured in monetary expenses. For many people, surviving an accident resulting in a catastrophic injury – like a truck accident or a motorcycle crash – leaves lasting mental scars. Recognizing the pain that survivors go through, the state of Illinois allows accident victims to request compensation for pain and suffering, potentially increasing the value of your claim.

Awards for pain and suffering can account for long-term losses as well. After the accident, many people experience a decreased quality of life, such as being unable to enjoy old hobbies or pastimes. A personal injury attorney can request additional compensation to address these new difficulties in your life.

Contact a North Shore, IL Catastrophic Injury Attorney

Adjusting to life after a catastrophic injury is not easy. At Gruzmark Law, Ltd., we manage the legal elements of your case so you can focus on recovery. To set up a free consultation with our Cook County, IL personal injury lawyers, call our offices at 847-729-7660 today.