Any time you are injured in an accident, the repercussion can be serious. However, a catastrophic injury can drastically affect your ability to function as you did before the incident. If you were in a life-altering accident, you may suffer from decreased mobility or diminished cognitive function that leaves you unable to work, perform daily tasks, or participate in recreational activities.
If another person’s negligent actions caused your accident, you have the right to file a lawsuit against them. Filing a case can be challenging, so it is important that you retain a seasoned attorney as soon as possible. Our Atlanta catastrophic injury lawyers can handle every aspect of your case so that you can focus on your recovery.
What is a Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury is identified by its severe impact on a person’s daily life. Common types of life-altering injuries include, but are not limited to:
- Burns
- Complex bone fractures
- Spinal cord injuries
- Severe head trauma
- Partial or total paralysis
- Loss of a limb or organ
- Mental incapacity or deficiencies
Whether the medical condition is long-term or permanent, claimants have the right to demand compensation from the parties responsible for their accident. An attorney working in Atlanta can help plaintiffs determine if their injuries are catastrophic.
Sources of Life-Changing Injuries
An individual could suffer a catastrophic injury in many ways. Atlanta is a busy city, so accidents are not uncommon. Some of the most common types of claims that result in life-altering injuries include:
- Motor vehicle and trucking collisions
- Defective products or prescription drugs
- Acts of medical malpractice
- Unsafe premises or negligent security
- Dog attacks
Anyone who suffers a catastrophic injury should seek help from a local attorney. A legal professional can help claimants analyze all the details of their accident to determine who is at fault. Often you may not even recognize someone else is responsible for your injuries.
Filing Deadlines in Catastrophic Injury Cases in Atlanta
Under Georgia law, there is a deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits known as the statute of limitations. Official Code of Georgia § 9-3-33 states that plaintiffs must file within two years of the date of the accident. The court can dismiss any cases filed after this deadline, leaving the injured party unable to recover compensation.
In rare cases, a claimant may have more time to file a lawsuit, but this is a very fact-specific determination and you should always contact an attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer familiar with the laws surrounding catastrophic injury cases can help injured parties understand these exceptions.
File a Claim with an Atlanta Catastrophic Injury Attorney
Catastrophic injuries greatly impact your health and well-being. After developing this type of severe medical condition, you may be understandably overwhelmed. If you believe another person or entity caused your accident, you may be able to hold them financially liable for your damages.
However, you do not have to do this alone. You should not have to stress during your recovery. Call an Atlanta catastrophic injury lawyer from our firm to set up a free consultation and discuss your legal options.