A catastrophic injury is a severe harm that permanently limits a person’s ability to work or perform essential life activities. Examples include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, severe burns, amputations, and profound internal organ damage. These cases often involve lengthy hospitalizations, specialized rehabilitation, and a lifetime of medical and support needs.

There is no meaningful average. Value depends on liability strength, venue, available insurance and assets, the permanence of injuries, future medical and attendant care, lost earning capacity, and the overall impact on quality of life. Strong documentation and credible expert opinions drive results

Catastrophic cases require broader proof and planning. Expect life care plans, vocational assessments, economic projections for lifetime losses, and multiple medical specialists. Settlement structures may include trusts or annuities to protect benefits and fund long‑term care. The litigation team is larger, and discovery is more technical.

Timelines vary. Record collection and initial expert review can take months. Contested cases with multiple defendants and extensive expert discovery often require 18 to 36 months or more. The pace depends on medical stability, court schedules, and whether defendants dispute liability and damages

Illinois does not impose a general cap on compensatory damages in personal injury cases. Specific categories are restricted, including punitive damages in medical malpractice matters and punitive damages against government entities. Your attorney will explain how these rules apply to your facts.

Deadlines depend on the claim type and who is being sued. Many negligence claims must be filed within two years of injury or discovery. Claims against local public entities can have shorter time limits. Medical negligence has additional rules, including a statute of repose. Claims involving minors often allow extra time. Speak with counsel promptly so no deadline is missed.

Investigates fault, preserves evidence, coordinates specialized medical evaluations, develops a life care plan, evaluates all insurance and corporate relationships, manages negotiations, and files suit when needed. If litigation is required, your lawyer handles depositions, motions, mediation, and trial preparation.

Past and future medical care, rehabilitation and therapy, in‑home or facility care, medical equipment and home modifications, lost wages and diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, loss of a normal life, scarring and disfigurement, and out‑of‑pocket costs. In limited situations, punitive damages may be available.

Early offers often undervalue future care and lifetime losses. A qualified Catastrophic Injury Attorney will analyze liability, project long‑term needs, and negotiate from strength. It is smart to have counsel review any offer before you sign.