Usually when workers are injured at work, they take some time off to recover and resume their normal activities. However, there are situations when workers suffer much more debilitating injuries that change their lives as they may never return to their jobs and perform their duties. Such injuries are considered catastrophic, and the worker may be entitled to additional compensation benefits.
If a worker sustains serious injuries and the injury is determined to be catastrophic then they are entitled to receive medical benefits, total disability benefits, and vocational rehabilitation benefits.
Here’s everything you need to know about catastrophic injury laws in Georgia.
What is Considered a Catastrophic Injury?
Georgia’s workers’ compensation law specifically defines the type of injuries that would be considered catastrophic.
- A spinal cord injury that results in paralysis of the arm, leg, or trunk.
- An amputation that causes effective loss of that body part such as arm, hand, leg, or foot.
- Severe head injuries that cause motor disturbances, disturbances in consciousness, disturbances of cerebral function, or severe neurological disorders.
- Second- or third-degree burns over 25 percent of the body
- Third-degree burns to five percent or more of the face or hands
- Total or industrial blindness
- Any other injury of the nature and severity that prevents the worker from performing his prior job or any other work available in the national economy that the worker is qualified to do.
There can be disputes about whether an injury can be considered catastrophic and whether the worker will be able be return to work. Having an experienced Atlanta catastrophic injury attorney by your side can help gather evidence to prove the nature of your injuries.
Catastrophic Injury Compensation in Atlanta
When a worker is injured in a work-related accident or suffers injury at the workplace, they are entitled to workers’ compensation for medical expenses and lost wages.
For a non-catastrophic injury, the worker can receive lost wages benefits for up to 400 weeks, while in case of catastrophic injuries, a worker can receive wage loss benefits for the rest of his life. Additionally, the worker may be entitled to other benefits, such as a rehabilitation supplier to furnish the injured worker with necessary rehabilitation services.
- Two-thirds of their normal weekly salary, capped at $550 a week.
- Medical, vocational, and rehabilitation benefits
- Temporary total disability benefits till the time they are unable to work.
Why Do You Need a Catastrophic Injury Attorney?
Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs can be much higher in a catastrophic case. It is rare for an insurance company to offer fair compensation for a person’s future medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering. The assistance of an experienced catastrophic injury attorney can help collect medical evidence and other documentation to prove your claim. Also, the nature of catastrophic injury claims can be complex which makes it necessary to have professional legal guidance.
Georgia has a no-fault workers’ compensation system which means that workers are not able to sue their employers for any workplace injuries. But if a third party is responsible for causing the injuries they can be sued. An attorney for Catastrophic Injury can help you make the right decision based on your circumstances.
Conclusion:
At Karma Injury Law, we are committed to safeguarding your rights when you are injured and stuck with medical bills. Our team of compassionate and skilled personal injury, workers’ compensation, car accident, and slip and fall injury lawyers guide clients thoroughly through the legal process, helping them through each step and process.
