Did you or someone close to you suffer a life-changing injury in Georgia?
Here’s what you need to know about how state law defines catastrophic injuries, what to expect from a catastrophic injury claim, and how a catastrophic injury lawyer can help you seek compensation.
What Is a Catastrophic Injury in Georgia?
A catastrophic injury refers to a severe injury that affects many aspects of a person’s life.
When an accident victim suffers a life-changing injury through no fault of their own, they may be able to pursue financial compensation under Georgia law.
Types of Catastrophic Injuries
Courts and lawyers often look at how much an injury limits someone’s ability to live and work to determine whether it’s catastrophic. Common catastrophic injuries include:
- Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in paralysis
- Amputation
- Loss of vision or hearing
- Severe burns
- Complex bone fractures
- Birth injuries
- Sports injuries
- Injuries that cause secondary complications, such as strokes
Common Causes of Catastrophic Injuries
Many types of incidents and accidents can lead to life-changing injuries and permanent disabilities, including:
- Car accidents
- Bicycle accidents
- Pedestrian accidents
- Slip-and-fall incidents
- Workplace accidents
- Machinery accidents
- Medical malpractice
- Assaults and other violence
- Defective products
What to Do If You or a Loved One Suffers a Catastrophic Injury
Catastrophic injuries usually require emergency care. Seek medical treatment immediately.
Once your condition stabilizes, take the following steps:
Follow your doctor’s treatment orders
Take all medications as prescribed and attend all follow-up medical appointments, including physical therapy or other recommended medical care.
Gather records
Police reports, incident reports, medical records, bills, photos, and insurance and witness contact information can provide essential information when building a personal injury claim.
Discuss your case with a Georgia catastrophic injury lawyer
Compensation in a catastrophic injury case can cover your past and current medical bills and other financial losses, but may also provide for long-term care expenses, pain and suffering, and lost income.
An experienced personal injury attorney can determine what your case is worth and advocate for every dollar.
FAQs About Catastrophic Injuries in Georgia
Below are answers to common questions individuals and families often have after a catastrophic injury changes their lives.
How long do I have to file a catastrophic injury lawsuit in Georgia?
You usually have two years from the date of the injury to file any personal injury lawsuit in Georgia, with some exceptions that can shorten the deadline to as little as a few months. A knowledgeable catastrophic injury lawyer can review your case to determine the statute of limitations for your situation.
What if the insurance company denies that my injury is catastrophic?
Insurance companies often downplay the severity of injuries to limit payouts. If this happens to you, a lawyer can help you push back with evidence demonstrating the full extent of your injuries on your life.
What role do expert witnesses play in these types of cases?
Expert witnesses, such as doctors and economists, can explain how your injury affects your health, career prospects, and future opportunities. Their input can help translate complex medical or financial information into simple terms for a judge or jury to understand.
Their insight can be particularly valuable as you pursue maximum compensation.
How Can a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Help?
If someone else’s negligence left you with a catastrophic injury, you could have grounds for a personal injury claim.
At Underwood Law LLC, our legal team can review your case and determine your legal options. Contact our firm today for a free consultation.
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