Utility companies are frequently faced with litigation arising from catastrophic injuries. These injuries result from events such as electrical contacts and gas explosions. Resultant injuries, including severe burns, brain damage, paraplegia, quadriplegia and loss of limbs, can serve as a difficult backdrop for the defense. In catastrophic injury cases, there is often an overwhelming empathy factor. Yet such injury cases are defensible, and damages can be mitigated, if properly investigated, defended and negotiated to a reasonable settlement. Our panel will address the issues surrounding the successful defense of such cases. Attendees will gain a better understanding of major injury claim management and defense tactics.