Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Queens, NY

If you or a family member sustained a catastrophic injury in Queens, New York, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides legal representation to pursue compensation for extensive medical bills, long-term care, lost income, and the profound impact a severe injury imposes on daily life. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys represent individuals and families throughout Queens County—from Jamaica and Flushing to Astoria, Long Island City, and the Rockaways. Founded in 1997, the firm has handled personal injury claims across New York City and understands the challenges that catastrophic cases present both at the negotiation table and in the courtroom. Reach the firm at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation concerning a catastrophic injury matter. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

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What Catastrophic Injury Means in Queens, NY

A catastrophic injury is a severe injury that permanently alters a person’s ability to function, earn a living, or live independently. These cases often involve traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage resulting in paralysis, amputations, severe burns, multiple fractures, or other life-altering harm. In Queens, the consequences ripple beyond the injured individual—families face steep ongoing medical costs, home modifications, and loss of companionship. Because these losses span a lifetime, the pursuit of compensation demands a detailed, forward-looking assessment of future medical needs and vocational impairment.

Catastrophic injury claims in Queens are typically filed in the New York Supreme Court, Queens County, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard in Jamaica. The court has unlimited jurisdiction over monetary damages, and no cap limits compensatory awards for physical injury. New York’s pure comparative fault rule means an injured person may recover even if partially at fault, though the recovery is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to the plaintiff. In motor vehicle cases, an injured party must also clear the “serious injury” threshold under New York Insurance Law § 5102 to pursue non-economic damages. The firm’s attorneys address these legal standards while developing a comprehensive damages presentation tailored to the long-term needs of someone who has suffered a catastrophic injury in Queens.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Catastrophic Injury Cases

Catastrophic injury cases are built on a thorough investigation of liability and a meticulous calculation of future damages. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work with accident reconstruction attorneys, vocational attorney, life-care planners, and treating physicians to document the full extent of an injury’s financial and personal toll. Early evidence preservation—such as securing surveillance footage, obtaining vehicle event data recorders, and identifying all potentially responsible parties—is a priority. The firm’s approach includes evaluating every available insurance policy, including underinsured and uninsured motorist coverage, and pursuing claims against multiple defendants where appropriate.

Once the evidence is assembled, the firm engages in settlement negotiations with insurers while simultaneously preparing the case for trial. Many catastrophic injury claims resolve through pre-trial resolution, but when an insurer refuses to offer fair compensation, the firm’s attorneys are prepared to litigate in Queens County Supreme Court. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, brings courtroom experience to the firm’s trial practice. Throughout the legal process, the firm’s attorneys keep clients informed about developments and work to secure compensation for past and future medical care, lost earnings, pain and suffering, and the cost of adaptive equipment and long-term assistance.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997. He is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, and has built a multi-state firm that concentrates on personal injury and other civil litigation. Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor; that background informs his evaluation of liability and his approach to courtroom advocacy. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring additional experience in civil litigation and insurance law, allowing the firm to handle complex catastrophic injury matters from investigation through trial or settlement. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.

Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm serves clients from its New York location in Buffalo and represents individuals throughout the state, including Queens County. Reach the firm at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a catastrophic injury under New York law?

A catastrophic injury is a severe, permanent injury that substantially impairs a person’s ability to work, live independently, or perform essential daily activities. These injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis, loss of limbs, severe burns, and multiple fractures. New York law does not have a single statutory definition for “catastrophic injury” in personal injury claims, but the term focuses on the long-term impact and cost of the harm. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys evaluate catastrophic injury cases by projecting future medical needs, lost earning capacity, and the need for lifelong assistance.

How long do I have to file a catastrophic injury lawsuit in New York?

New York’s statute of limitations for most personal injury claims, including those arising from catastrophic injuries, is three years from the date of the injury (N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214(5)). For a wrongful death claim stemming from a catastrophic injury, the limit is two years from the date of death (N.Y. E.P.T.L. § 5-4.1). Claims against a municipality, such as the City of New York, require a notice of claim within 90 days. Missing the applicable deadline can bar recovery entirely. The firm recommends consulting an attorney early to preserve evidence and comply with all filing deadlines. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your timeline.

What damages can I recover in a catastrophic injury case in Queens?

An injured person may recover economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, future care costs) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life). In catastrophic injury cases, future medical and life-care costs often represent the largest portion of a claim. New York does not cap compensatory damages in personal injury cases. The firm’s attorneys work with medical and vocational attorneys to document these losses fully. Because every case is different, the value of a claim depends on the severity of the injury, the clarity of liability, and the available insurance coverage.

Can I recover compensation if I was partly at fault for the accident?

Yes. New York applies a pure comparative fault rule, so you may recover damages even if you were partially responsible for the accident. Your compensation is reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you. In motor vehicle accident cases, you must also meet the “serious injury” threshold under Insurance Law § 5102 to recover for pain and suffering. The firm’s attorneys evaluate comparative fault issues early to build the strongest possible damages presentation.

How does a catastrophic injury lawyer handle a case on a contingency fee basis?

In a contingency fee arrangement, the lawyer receives a percentage of the recovery only if compensation is obtained; if there is no recovery, the client owes no attorney’s fee. This structure allows individuals with severe injuries to pursue legal claims without upfront legal costs. The percentage is typically agreed upon in a written retainer. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers contingency fee representation in personal injury matters, subject to a signed engagement agreement. For a consultation, contact the firm at (888) 437-7747.

What should I look for when choosing a catastrophic injury lawyer in Queens?

Seek a firm with experience handling severe injury cases, knowledge of Queens County courts, and the resources to develop comprehensive damage projections. Catastrophic cases require a firm that works with medical and financial attorneys and is prepared to try the case if a fair settlement is not offered. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have handled personal injury claims for decades. The firm’s New York location represents clients in Queens County Supreme Court and throughout the state. To discuss your matter, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

New York Legal Resources:
New York State Unified Court System |
N.Y. C.P.L.R. § 214 (Statute of Limitations) |
N.Y. Insurance Law § 5102 (Serious Injury Threshold)

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case. Results may vary.