Catastrophic injuries change everything. When a sudden accident leaves you or someone you love facing long-term disability, ongoing medical care, or permanent lifestyle changes, it’s more than overwhelming—it’s life-altering. Between surgeries, physical therapy, and the mental toll of adapting to a new reality, the legal process can feel like another impossible hurdle.
That’s where we come in. At Kitchel Law PLLC, we help people in Arlington and across Northern Virginia take back a sense of control after devastating injuries. Working with a catastrophic injury lawyer in Arlington means you don’t have to figure everything out on your own.
We’ll guide you through the legal side of recovery, fight for the resources you need, and give you space to focus on healing. With 28 years of combined experience, we’re committed to personal, one-on-one service that reflects the seriousness of what you’re going through. If you’re looking for an Arlington personal injury lawyer, our team is here to support you.
What Counts as a Catastrophic Injury?
Not every serious injury qualifies as catastrophic, but the distinction matters. Catastrophic injuries typically cause long-term or permanent damage that significantly impacts your ability to work, care for yourself, or enjoy daily life. These aren’t just medical cases—they’re personal stories of resilience, adaptation, and ongoing need.
We represent clients facing:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries, including paralysis
- Severe burns
- Amputations
- Complex fractures or orthopedic trauma
- Permanent loss of vision or hearing
Whether the result of a car accident, workplace incident, fall, or medical trauma, these injuries often require extensive recovery and lifelong support. Our job is to make sure your legal case reflects that reality.
What to Expect From the Legal Process
After a catastrophic injury, legal issues can seem like one more burden to carry. Our role is to lift that burden. We start by getting to know you, learning what happened, and understanding how your life has changed.
From there, we build your case by:
- Collecting medical records and expert opinions
- Calculating long-term costs of care, lost income, and future needs
- Investigating who may be legally responsible
- Handling communication with insurance companies
- Preparing your case for trial, if needed
Early in the process, many clients ask, “How long will it take for my case to settle?” The answer depends on the complexity of your injuries, the willingness of the other side to negotiate fairly, and whether a trial becomes necessary.
While some cases resolve in months, others may take longer—but our commitment to you does not change. We stay in regular contact, explain your options clearly, and make sure you always know where things stand.
Damages in a Catastrophic Injury Case
The financial impact of a catastrophic injury can be enormous. Beyond the initial emergency care, you may need surgeries, assistive devices, home modifications, occupational therapy, and in-home support. You may be unable to return to your previous job—or any job at all.
We help clients recover compensation for:
- Medical expenses, both past and future
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Necessary life care planning or accommodations
Our goal is not just to recover compensation, but to secure a financial future that matches the seriousness of the harm. That means accounting for everything you’re dealing with now, and everything you’ll need in the years ahead.
You Don’t Pay Unless We Win
We understand that most families don’t have the resources to pay out-of-pocket for legal representation. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis. You won’t pay anything up front, and we only collect a fee if we recover compensation for you.
That structure allows you to pursue justice without financial risk. It also keeps our goals aligned—we don’t get paid unless your case succeeds. From our first meeting to the final resolution, we’re invested in doing what’s right for you and your family.
How Much Time Do You Have to File a Claim?
In Virginia, there is a legal time limit (per § 8.01-243) for filing a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the injury. Missing that deadline can mean losing your right to compensation entirely.
That’s why we recommend speaking with an attorney as soon as possible, even if you’re still in treatment or unsure whether you want to pursue a claim. The earlier we can begin gathering evidence and preserving records, the stronger your case will be.
Our Approach to Catastrophic Injury Cases
Every catastrophic injury case is different, but the way we approach each one stays consistent. We focus on personal attention, strong relationships, and clear communication. You’ll know who’s handling your case, and you’ll be able to reach us when you need to.
We also understand that many clients are navigating not just the legal system, but the medical system too. We help connect you with resources, track your treatment, and communicate with providers so nothing gets lost in the shuffle. Our goal is to help you move forward—not just in your case, but in your life.