A catastrophic injury occurs when an accident or other event results in a disastrous or seriously calamitous injury. Whereas a minor injury stemming from a car accident will not qualify as a catastrophic injury resulting in a major damages award, an accident that renders a person permanently and profoundly disabled can be characterized as a catastrophic injury. Depending on the circumstances, a catastrophic injury may result in larger than normal special damages, in the form of current and future medical expenses, as well as more substantial non-economic damages such as loss of consortium, loss of services, and pain and suffering. Certain events that lead to a catastrophic injury may render a claim eligible for punitive damages, as well.