Encinitas, CA personal injury attorney Jeffrey Padilla talks about what makes catastrophic injury cases different from other personal injury cases. He explains that catastrophic injury cases tend to resolve in one of two ways: either very quickly or after extensive preparation leading up to trial. If the at-fault party has minimal insurance, settlements often occur rapidly. In contrast, when the case involves a truck or a company with substantial coverage, the primary dispute typically centers on the case’s value.

In these situations, clients often face lifelong limitations. He emphasizes the importance of developing a detailed life care plan to assess future medical needs and determine their monetary value. Equally critical is telling the client’s story—demonstrating how their life has been profoundly altered by the injury and how it will continue to differ from what it was prior to the accident. Effectively articulating this narrative is essential, as opposing parties frequently dispute the projected impact, which can extend the duration of the case.