Catastrophic Injuries in Atlanta and the State of Georgia
According to the American Medical Association, the definition of a catastrophic injury is a severe injury to the spine, spinal cord, or brain, sometimes including fractures to the skull or spine. Catastrophic injuries may also include the total or partial loss of a limb (arm, hand, foot or leg) or the loss of vision, hearing or other sense. Generally, catastrophic injuries result in some form of permanent impairment, loss of enjoyment of life or the inability to work. Catastrophic or life-altering injuries can result from a number of situations or events, including motor vehicle accidents, use of defective products, medical malpractice or negligence, premises liability and other general negligence actions.
Other serious injuries may, under certain circumstances, also be considered catastrophic. For example, a close-head or mild brain injury that results in mood or personality changes, memory loss, depression or other symptoms that serious impact a person’s enjoyment of life or ability to earn a living; hearing loss that prevents a musician from playing earning a living as an orchestral musician; or a severe arthritic condition or neurological condition that requires additional care for routine daily functions. Essentially, any injury or condition that causes a permanent loss of earning capacity or impairment of at least one essential daily function can be characterized as catastrophic.
Examples of specific types of injuries that may be considered catastrophic include:
- severed or bruised spinal cord
- fractured, displaced or herniated disks
- traumatic brain injuries
- closed head and mild brain injuries
- skull fractures
- severe burns requiring skin grafts
- organ damage
- partial paralysis
- paraplegia or quadriplegia
- traumatic amputation or partial amputation of a limb
- permanent nerve injuries or damage
- loss of eyesight, hearing or other sense
In catastrophic injury cases, the proof of fault or liability is often no different than in ordinary negligence actions, such as automobile accident cases. However, the analysis and proof of damages in these cases can be complicated and costly. Typically, an economist or other financial expert must be used to calculate projected earning streams and reduce those calculations to present value for presentation at trial. In addition, vocational experts may be needed to testify concerning a person’s skills and lost earning capacity. Finally, a rehabilitation or life-care planner may be needed to prepare a life-care plan to show the expected costs of future care for someone with a permanent disability.
To ensure that legal rights are adequately preserved and pursued, persons suffering from a catastrophic injury resulting from the negligence or fault of others should promptly consult with an experienced Georgia catastrophic injury attorney for advice concerning the proper handling and value of your case.
The catastrophic injury attorneys at Brownstein & Nguyen have substantial experience in evaluating, handling and preparing catastrophic injury cases for trial. We are familiar and have worked with experts such as those outlined above to properly assess and present proof of the substantial economic damages resulting from a catastrophic injury. Our attorneys have a proven track record, both in and out of the courtroom, of ensuring that catastrophic injury victims recover maximum compensation for their losses. Click here to view some of our notable results, and click here to see what our clients say about our experience and dedication in handling their claims.
If you, a friend or loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury in Georgia, call or contact our experienced Atlanta, Georgia catastrophic injury attorneys today for a free consultation.
