What to Expect During a Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit in Nevada: From Filing to Settlement or Trial
Suffering a catastrophic injury—such as a spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, amputation, or severe burn—can change your life in an instant. These types of injuries often result in long-term or permanent disability, significant medical expenses, and emotional trauma. When someone else’s negligence caused your injury, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit in Nevada can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward. But catastrophic injury claims are more complex than typical injury cases. Mainor Ellis is here to help you understand what to expect from the legal process—from filing to settlement or trial.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
The first step is to meet with a qualified personal injury attorney who understands catastrophic injury cases. Our Las Vegas Catastrophic Injury Attorneys start by listening to your story, reviewing medical records, and identifying potential defendants. Because catastrophic injuries often result in high-value claims, we take time to gather strong evidence and determine whether a third party—like a negligent driver, property owner, or product manufacturer—may be liable.
Step 2: Investigation and Filing the Complaint
Once we accept your case, we conduct a thorough investigation. This may include gathering accident reports, eyewitness statements, surveillance footage, medical documentation, and expert opinions. When ready, we file a formal complaint in Nevada court outlining your injuries, damages, and the legal basis for your claim.
Nevada generally gives you two years from the date of injury to file a lawsuit, so it’s important not to delay.
Step 3: Discovery Process
After the lawsuit is filed, both sides enter discovery, a pre-trial phase where each party exchanges information. This often involves written questions (interrogatories), depositions (sworn out-of-court testimony), and document production. In catastrophic injury cases, discovery is particularly detailed. Medical experts, rehabilitation specialists, and life care planners may be involved to evaluate your long-term needs and losses.
Step 4: Negotiation and Settlement Talks
Most personal injury lawsuits settle before reaching trial. Your attorney will negotiate aggressively with the defense and insurance companies to pursue a fair settlement. In catastrophic injury cases, we seek compensation for:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Lost income and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
- Home modifications and long-term care
Because the financial stakes are high, insurers may fight harder to avoid large payouts—making legal representation critical.
Step 5: Trial (If Needed)
If a fair settlement is not reached, the case will go to trial. This can last several days or weeks, depending on the complexity. A judge or jury will hear arguments, review evidence, and decide who is liable and how much compensation should be awarded. We prepare every case as if it will go to trial, giving you the strongest possible position whether we settle or litigate.
Let Mainor Ellis Fight for You
Catastrophic injury lawsuits are not just about recovering money—they are about securing your future. If you or a loved one has suffered a life-altering injury due to someone else’s negligence, you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone.
Call Mainor Ellis in Las Vegas today for a free consultation. We’ll help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.
Source:
leg.state.nv.us/nrs/nrs-011.html
