What is considered a catastrophic injury?

A catastrophic injury is a severe injury that significantly affects long-term function or quality of life. Examples include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries that cause partial or total paralysis, amputations, severe burns, and other injuries that may lead to permanent disability, extensive rehabilitation, or lifelong medical care. Because these injuries can involve future treatment, assistive equipment, and reduced earning capacity, a catastrophic injury claim often has to account for costs that stretch years into the future.