Catastrophic Workplace Accidents in Athens, GA

Common causes of catastrophic injuries in the workplace

Some of the most common causes of catastrophic injuries we see in the Georgia workplace include falls from an elevated height, car and truck crashes, dog bites and overexertion. It’s also not uncommon to have catastrophic injuries reported at nursing homes due to negligence, child care accidents and even medical malpractice.

Outside the workplace, a person can experience a sports-related catastrophic injury or birth-related catastrophic injury.

Frequently asked questions about catastrophic workplace accidents

What makes an injury “catastrophic”?

A catastrophic injury is so severe that it often leaves victims with permanent bodily damage and long-term or permanent paralysis. In many cases, the injury involves the brain and/or spinal cord, and people who suffer from this life-altering tragedy often require 24-hour nursing care.

What can cause a catastrophic injury?

This type of injury can be caused by being in a car accident, being burned over a large portion of the body, suffering a hand/arm/foot/leg amputation, multiple bone fractures or the loss of an eye. Other examples of a catastrophic injury in the workplace would be neck or spine damage, organ damage or a traumatic brain injury.

Workplace machinery accidents, fires, motor vehicle crashes, construction accidents and defective products all contribute to the chances of a person suffering a catastrophic injury.

Who is liable for my catastrophic injury?

If a person or third party can be found responsible for a catastrophic injury, they can be held accountable for any losses the victim suffered. Examples of this include drivers found liable for the victim’s injuries due to careless driving while impaired, distracted or speeding, or a property owner being held accountable for any injuries sustained on their premises.

Also, the makers of any products found to be defective can be held financially responsible for a person’s injuries. It’s important to talk with an attorney to see if your situation is similar to one described above.

It’s important to note, however, that if you suffered a catastrophic injury at work, then your medical expenses and lost wages should be covered by your employer (or their insurance company) under Georgia workers’ compensation law. These benefits are owed regardless of who was liable for the injury.

What type of compensation can I receive after suffering a catastrophic injury at work?

Because of their debilitating nature, catastrophic injury victims often face complicated legal battles, longer court cases, and larger verdicts and settlements. Compensation for a work-related accident should include past, current and future medical expenses, rehabilitation expenses (if applicable), lost wages, and lost earning potential.

Injured workers in Georgia are not eligible for pain and suffering through their workers’ compensation claim, rather they must pursue an injury claim against a third-party if the wish to obtain benefits for emotional distress.

The bottom line is that due to the severity of the injury, the payout is much greater in cases of catastrophic workplace accidents.

Where in Athens, GA can I receive treatment for a catastrophic injury?

If you’ve suffered a catastrophic injury, chances are you’re being taken to a hospital. Some of the most well-known hospitals in Athens include St. Mary’s, Athens Piedmont Regional Med Center, Landmark Hospitals and Reddy Urgent Care.

Local resources for Athens, GA residents