The results of an accident are unpredictable. Sometimes the injuries are relatively minor — perhaps a few cuts or pulled muscles. But far too often, accident victims sustain serious, life-altering injuries. These are known as catastrophic injuries.

Although the term suggests that a disaster occurred, “catastrophic injury” refers not to the cause but to the seriousness of the harm suffered. An injury will be considered catastrophic if it is difficult or impossible for the victim to fully recover or to resume a normal life. These are examples:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Loss of limb (amputation)
• Serious burns and scars
• Disfigurement
• Organ damage
• Multiple fractures
• Loss of vision or hearing

Money damages for catastrophic injuries run much higher than in an average accident case. In addition to physical and emotional trauma, these injuries inflict devastating financial losses on the victim and their family. Returning to work is often difficult, so earning money becomes a problem, which is compounded by the costs of extended medical care, rehabilitation and other treatments. Home renovations also may be needed, such as to allow wheelchair accessibility.

For help in obtaining maximum compensation, you will need a Georgia lawyer who is experienced in serious and permanent injury cases. Insurance policies, whether it’s your own insurance or that of another party, rarely cover the high costs associated with catastrophic injuries. Because of this, litigation is often necessary. In Georgia, a personal injury lawsuit allows you to recover tangible, economic losses like lost wages and medical bills. It also allows you to recover for pain and suffering, loss of quality of life and emotional distress.

Keep in mind, Georgia follows a comparative fault system. You can win a personal injury case only if you are less than 50 percent liable for the accident. Additionally, your damage award will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. So, if a jury awards you $1 million in damages but also says you were 20 percent at fault for the accident, your award will be reduced to $800,000. Proving and disproving levels of fault among the parties is critical to achieving a sizable recovery of damages.

Jason & Bradley, LLC in Stone Mountain helps seriously injured people win the compensation they are due. We represent clients throughout the Atlanta area. Please call 404-297-9933 or contact us online for a free consultation today.