
Voted Best Personal Injury Law Firm By Georgia Lawyers
Atlanta Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
TESTIMONIALS
I called Matt after several people recommended him. He was very kind and did a very good job on my son’s case. We are very thankful for the work he did. Most importantly, he was never hard to reach and answered every question we had while going through the process. Matt is the only attorney I will ever call in the future.
- Emily
My husband is a cyclist that did not fair well against an SUV recently. Matt and his team took phenomenal care of us, allowing us not to stress out (too much) about the little things. Matt and his team handled everything with professionalism. We know we made the right call.
- Jane
So glad I hired this firm after my rearend car accident. Matt embodies the skill set and values I was looking for. He treats every case like a mini war, and was a zealous advocate on my behalf. And he did so in the most competent and skillful manner. He listened, was empathetic and understood my legal and nonlegal problems.
- Jared
My 85-year old mom was in a motor vehicle accident with an uninsured motorist. His love, thoroughness and commitment to her case helped us through this accident and her cancer treatment. She underwent successful lobectomy and chemotherapy and is doing exceptionally well. We are immensely grateful.
- Lindy
It was important to me to get the maximum money I could for my broken neck and arm. After getting jerked around for months by State Farm, I interviewed several firms and chose Mr. Wetherington. I’m glad I did. He forced the insurance company to pay twenty times their last offer to me.
- Veronica
It is an honor to share my experience with Mr. Wetherington. He was able to get answers about what happened in my son’s wreck that other attorney’s were not able to do. I am so thankful for the work that he did and he was very thorough in his explanation of why the vehicle had a “defect.”
- Anonymous
My case did not settle. The person that hit me only had minimal policy limits. Fortunately, I had my own insurance, which should have provided more money. My insurance company, Allstate, treated me like garbage. We had to sue them and go all the way to trial, which we won.
- Jane Doe
Matt Wetherington is the attorney who is suing the booting companies. We need to do everything we can as a community to help him succeed. God bless you, Mr. Wetherington!
- Michael
The best! Great people and always friendly.
- Jamal
Our Locations
Atlanta Catastrophic Injury Lawyer: Representing Victims of Serious Injury Throughout Georgia
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury in Atlanta, whether from a car accident on I-285, a workplace incident in Midtown, or medical malpractice in Buckhead, you need a catastrophic injury lawyer to secure the justice and compensation you deserve.
Catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or severe burns, can alter lives forever, leading to lifelong medical costs, lost income, and profound emotional trauma. At Wetherington Law Firm, our dedicated catastrophic injury attorneys, led by Matt Wetherington, navigate Georgia’s complex personal injury laws, like OCGA § 51-1-2, to hold negligent parties including drivers, employers, or hospitals, accountable.
Our catastrophic injury lawyers in Atlanta meticulously investigate each case, gathering critical evidence like medical records, accident reports, or expert testimony to prove liability and maximize compensation. Whether your injury occurred in a construction accident in Downtown Atlanta or due to a defective product in Decatur, we pursue damages for medical expenses, lost earning potential, pain and suffering, and more.
With a “Superb” Avvo rating, a $24 million judgment for a personal injury case, and over $100 million recovered for clients, our trial-ready catastrophic injury attorney Matt Wetherington delivers powerful representation in courts like Fulton County Superior Court, ensuring your voice is heard against insurance companies or corporate defendants.
As Georgia Trial Lawyers Association members, Wetherington Law Firm offers compassionate, local expertise, serving clients in Atlanta and throughout Georgia. Our contingency fee model (25–40%) means no upfront costs, you pay nothing unless we win.
If you’re searching for a catastrophic injury lawyer, trust our proven track record and 24/7 availability to fight for your recovery. We explain your rights under Georgia’s personal injury laws, listen to your story, and tailor a strategy to secure your financial stability. Contact us at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our quick online form for a free consultation to take the first step toward justice and healing.
What Do Catastrophic Injury Lawyers Do?
A catastrophic injury lawyer is a specialized attorney who represents victims or their families seeking justice and compensation after severe, life-altering injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), or amputations, caused by negligence.
In Georgia, these lawyers navigate complex personal injury laws, like OCGA § 51-1-2, to hold negligent parties accountable for accidents on Atlanta’s I-285, workplace incidents in Midtown, or medical malpractice in Buckhead. By investigating cases, proving liability, and securing damages for medical costs, lost income, and emotional trauma, they help clients rebuild their lives.
Catastrophic injury lawyers undertake critical tasks to build and resolve claims, combining legal expertise with client support. Their primary responsibilities include:
1. Investigating the Accident
Lawyers conduct thorough investigations to identify liable parties, such as drivers, employers, or hospitals. They collect evidence like:
- Accident Reports: Police or OSHA findings from I-75 crashes or Decatur worksite incidents.
- Medical Records: MRI scans or surgical notes detailing TBIs or spinal injuries from Buckhead hospitals.
- Black Box Data: Vehicle speed or braking records, common in truck collisions on I-285.
- Witness Statements: Accounts clarifying fault, like a coworker’s testimony about unsafe conditions in Midtown.
This evidence pinpoints negligence, crucial for claims involving multiple parties.
2. Proving Liability
To establish negligence, lawyers prove duty, breach, causation, and damages under OCGA § 51-1-2. They use:
- Expert Testimony: Neurologists analyze TBI severity; engineers assess equipment failures in construction accidents.
- Corporate Records: Show employer negligence, like ignored safety protocols in a Sandy Springs factory.
- Driver Logs: Reveal violations of federal hours-of-service rules in trucking cases.
They counter defenses like comparative negligence (OCGA § 51-11-7), ensuring the victim’s fault doesn’t unfairly reduce damages.
3. Calculating and Pursuing Damages
Lawyers assess the full scope of losses, pursuing:
- Medical Costs: Past and future expenses, like $1 million+ for spinal cord injury care, per National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center estimates.
- Lost Earning Capacity: Income lost due to permanent disability, vital for young victims in Athens.
- Pain and Suffering: Emotional and physical trauma, valued through psychological evaluations for burn victims in Savannah.
4. Navigating Legal Deadlines
Georgia’s two-year statute of limitations (OCGA § 9-3-33) requires prompt filing, with exceptions for minors or fraud (OCGA § 9-3-90, § 9-3-96). Lawyers ensure timely action in courts like Fulton County Superior Court, preserving evidence like traffic footage from the accident scene before it’s lost.
5. Negotiating Settlements and Litigating
Most cases settle, but lawyers negotiate aggressively with insurers to avoid lowball offers, leveraging evidence to secure fair payouts, often $500,000–millions for catastrophic injuries. If needed, they litigate, presenting compelling cases to judges or juries, as Matt Wetherington’s team has, achieving significant verdicts. Their trial readiness ensures maximum recovery, whether for a TBI or amputation in a Grant Park accident. Contact us at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our quick online form for a free consultation to take the first step toward justice and healing.
Qualities to Look for in a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
Choosing the right catastrophic injury attorney ensures a strong case. Seek:
- Experience: A track record like Matt Wetherington’s $24 million judgment and specialization in catastrophic injuries.
- Reputation: Strong client reviews, a “Superb” Avvo rating, and Georgia Trial Lawyers Association membership.
- Contingency Fees: No upfront costs, as at Wetherington Law Firm (25–40% contingency).
- Trial Readiness: Experience in Fulton County courts for litigation if needed.
- Local Knowledge: Familiarity with Atlanta’s roads (I-285, Peachtree Street) and medical facilities.
- Empathy: Compassionate communication during free consultations, addressing your needs.
Meet Matt Wetherington – Atlanta Catastrophic Injury Lawyer

Matt Wetherington is a top-ranked trial lawyer with a national reputation for winning high-stakes personal injury, wrongful death, and class action cases. He has secured record verdicts across Georgia and led his firm to repeated recognition, including the #1 ranking by peers and induction into the Fulton County Daily Report’s Hall of Fame. His record includes major appellate wins, large class actions, and one of Georgia’s biggest auto wreck verdicts. A first-generation college graduate from Climax, Georgia, Matt also leads nonprofits like the Tire Safety Group and supports legal innovation through the Legal Accelerator Network.
When a catastrophic injury, such as a spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, or severe burn turns your life upside down in Atlanta, you need a fierce and experienced catastrophic injury attorney like Matt Wetherington. His deep understanding of Georgia’s personal injury laws allows him to hold negligent parties whether reckless drivers, negligent employers, or hospitals accountable for your suffering. Compassionate yet relentless, Matt listens to your story, builds a powerful case with evidence like medical records and expert testimony, and fights for maximum compensation to cover medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering.
As a proud member of the Georgia Trial Lawyers Association, Matt Wetherington combines local expertise with a client-first approach, serving families throughout Georgia. His contingency fee model (25–40%) means no upfront costs, you pay nothing unless he wins. Whether negotiating with insurers or litigating in Fulton County Superior Court, Matt’s trial-ready strategies ensure your case is heard, countering defenses like victim fault under OCGA § 51-11-7. Matt provides the support you need to rebuild. Contact Wetherington Law Firm at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our online form to meet Matt Wetherington and discover why he’s trusted to deliver results for catastrophic injury victims across Georgia.
How Catastrophic Injuries Differ From Other Personal Injuries
Catastrophic injuries stand apart from other personal injuries due to their severe, life-altering impact, often resulting in permanent disability, extensive medical needs, and profound emotional and financial burdens.
Unlike typical personal injuries, such as sprains or minor fractures, catastrophic injuries like spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, or severe burns require long-term or lifelong care and can drastically change a victim’s quality of life. In Georgia, pursuing compensation for these injuries under laws like OCGA § 51-1-2 involves complex legal strategies to address their unique scope.
Defining Catastrophic Injuries vs. Other Personal Injuries
Catastrophic injuries are severe, often permanent injuries that significantly impair a person’s ability to function, work, or live independently. Examples include:
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Leading to paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia), as seen in car accidents on I-285.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Causing cognitive or motor deficits, common in construction falls in Midtown Atlanta.
- Severe Burns: Requiring extensive surgeries, often from workplace explosions in Decatur.
- Amputations: Loss of limbs due to machinery accidents or medical malpractice in Buckhead hospitals.
In contrast, other personal injuries are typically less severe, with shorter recovery periods and less impact on daily life. Examples include:
- Soft Tissue Injuries: Sprains, strains, or whiplash from minor car crashes.
- Fractures: Broken bones that heal with casting or surgery, like a wrist fracture from a slip in Downtown Atlanta.
- Minor Lacerations: Cuts requiring stitches but no long-term impairment.
The key difference lies in severity and permanence: catastrophic injuries often result in irreversible damage, while other personal injuries generally allow full or near-full recovery within weeks or months.
Differences in Recovery and Medical Needs
Catastrophic injuries require extensive, often lifelong medical intervention, setting them apart from other personal injuries:
- Catastrophic Injuries:
- Long-Term Care: Victims may need ongoing rehabilitation, in-home care, or assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs for spinal cord injuries). For example, a TBI patient in Sandy Springs may require years of cognitive therapy.
- Multiple Surgeries: Severe burns or amputations often involve repeated procedures, skin grafts, or prosthetics, costing hundreds of thousands of dollars.
- Permanent Disability: Many victims cannot return to work or live independently, as seen in paralysis cases from I-75 crashes.
- Cost: Medical expenses can exceed $1 million over a lifetime, per studies from the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center.
- Other Personal Injuries:
- Short-Term Treatment: Minor fractures or sprains typically heal with rest, physical therapy, or a single surgery, often within 6–12 weeks.
- Temporary Disability: Victims may miss work briefly but usually regain full function, like recovering from a broken ankle after a fall in Grant Park.
- Lower Costs: Treatment costs are typically $5,000–$50,000, significantly less than catastrophic cases.
The extended recovery and higher medical demands of catastrophic injuries necessitate comprehensive legal strategies to secure adequate compensation.
Legal Considerations for Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injury cases in Georgia are more complex than other personal injury cases due to their stakes and scope:
- Higher Stakes: The lifelong impact requires proving extensive damages, including future medical costs, lost earning potential, and non-economic losses like pain and suffering. Under OCGA § 51-1-2, lawyers must demonstrate negligence by drivers, employers, or doctors, often against well-funded defendants like corporations or hospitals.
- Complex Evidence: Catastrophic cases demand robust evidence, such as:
- Medical records detailing permanent damage, like MRI scans for TBIs.
- Expert testimony from neurologists or economists to project lifelong costs, critical in Fulton County Superior Court.
- Accident reconstruction for crashes on Peachtree Street to prove liability.
- Multiple Liable Parties: Cases may involve several defendants—e.g., a truck driver, their employer, and a vehicle manufacturer in an I-285 collision—complicating liability under OCGA § 51-12-33.
- Insurance Challenges: Insurers often dispute catastrophic claims, citing pre-existing conditions or victim fault (OCGA § 51-11-7), requiring skilled negotiation to counter lowball offers.
Other personal injury cases, like minor slip-and-falls, typically involve simpler evidence (e.g., incident reports), fewer defendants, and lower compensation, making them less contentious.
Differences in Compensation
Compensation for catastrophic injuries far exceeds that for other personal injuries due to their profound impact:
- Catastrophic Injuries:
- Economic Damages: Cover past and future medical costs (e.g., $500,000+ for spinal cord injury care), lost earning capacity (potentially millions for young victims), and adaptive equipment (e.g., home modifications).
- Non-Economic Damages: Include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life, often valued at 3–5 times economic damages in severe cases.
- Punitive Damages: Possible for egregious negligence, like a drunk driver causing a TBI, per OCGA § 51-12-5.1.
- Settlement Range: Typically $500,000 to several million, reflecting lifelong needs, as seen in Wetherington Law Firm’s $12 million judgment.
- Other Personal Injuries:
- Economic Damages: Limited to immediate medical bills ($5,000–$50,000) and short-term lost wages (e.g., weeks of missed work).
- Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering are lower, often 1–2 times economic damages, due to temporary impact.
- Punitive Damages: Rare, as negligence is typically less severe.
- Settlement Range: Usually $10,000–$100,000, reflecting shorter recovery.
Catastrophic injury claims require detailed damage calculations, supported by experts, to ensure compensation matches the injury’s lifelong toll, unlike the more straightforward claims for minor injuries. Contact us at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our quick online form for a free consultation to take the first step toward justice and healing.
What is the Compensation for Catastrophic Injury in Georgia?
Catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), severe burns, or amputations, have a profound, often lifelong impact, requiring extensive medical care, financial support, and emotional recovery. In Georgia, victims of catastrophic injuries caused by negligence, whether from car accidents on I-285, workplace incidents in Midtown, or medical malpractice in Buckhead, can seek compensation under OCGA § 51-1-2 to address these losses.
Compensation covers economic damages (e.g., medical bills), non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering), and, in some cases, punitive damages, helping victims and families rebuild their lives.
In Georgia, catastrophic injury victims can pursue three main categories of compensation to address the extensive impact of their injuries:
1. Economic Damages
Economic damages cover tangible financial losses, which are often substantial due to the severity of catastrophic injuries. These include:
- Medical Expenses: Past and future costs, such as surgeries, hospitalizations, rehabilitation, in-home care, and assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs for spinal cord injuries). For example, lifetime care for a TBI can exceed $1 million, per the National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center.
- Lost Earning Capacity: Compensation for income lost due to permanent disability, critical for young victims in Atlanta unable to work after a construction accident in Downtown.
- Adaptive Equipment and Home Modifications: Costs for prosthetics, vehicle adaptations, or home ramps, often $50,000–$100,000 for paraplegia cases in Decatur.
- Other Costs: Therapy, medications, or travel for medical appointments, documented with receipts.
2. Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages address intangible losses, which are significant in catastrophic injury cases due to their life-altering nature. These include:
- Pain and Suffering: Physical discomfort and emotional distress from injuries like severe burns, valued through medical testimony and personal accounts.
- Emotional Distress: Psychological impacts, such as PTSD or depression, common after TBIs from I-75 crashes, supported by psychological evaluations.
- Loss of Quality of Life: Reduced ability to enjoy hobbies, family life, or independence, as seen in paralysis cases in Sandy Springs.
- Loss of Consortium: Impact on relationships with spouses or family, often claimed by partners of victims in Buckhead.
3. Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are awarded in cases of egregious negligence or intentional misconduct, such as a drunk driver causing an amputation or a hospital’s systemic failure, per OCGA § 51-12-5.1. These aim to punish the defendant and deter future harm, potentially doubling or tripling the settlement in rare cases. For example, a reckless trucking company in Savannah might face punitive damages after a catastrophic crash.
How is Compensation Calculated in Catastrophic Injuries?
Calculating compensation for catastrophic injuries in Georgia involves assessing both measurable costs and subjective losses, a complex process due to the injuries’ lifelong impact. Here’s how it’s done:
Economic Damages Calculation
- Past Costs: Lawyers compile medical bills, wage statements, and receipts to document expenses incurred, such as $200,000 in surgeries after a TBI from a Midtown fall.
- Future Costs: Experts like economists and life care planners project lifelong needs, including:
- Medical care: $500,000–$3 million for spinal cord injuries, per industry estimates.
- Lost earnings: Based on the victim’s age, occupation, and disability, potentially $1 million+ for a young professional in Atlanta.
- Modifications: $50,000–$200,000 for home or vehicle adaptations.
- Documentation: Medical records, employer letters, and expert reports ensure accuracy, critical in Fulton County Superior Court filings.
Non-Economic Damages Calculation
Non-economic damages are subjective, requiring compelling arguments to quantify:
- Multiplier Method: Courts or insurers may multiply economic damages by 3–5 (or higher for severe cases) to estimate pain and suffering. For example, $500,000 in medical costs could yield $1.5–$2.5 million in non-economic damages.
- Per Diem Method: Assigns a daily value (e.g., $200/day) to suffering, multiplied by the recovery period or life expectancy, though less common for permanent injuries.
- Supporting Evidence: Family testimonies, photos of pre-injury life, and psychological evaluations highlight the emotional toll, as seen in paralysis cases in Athens.
Punitive Damages Calculation
Punitive damages depend on the defendant’s conduct and financial status:
- Severity of Misconduct: Gross negligence, like a company ignoring safety protocols, justifies higher awards.
- Caps: Georgia caps punitive damages at $250,000 in most cases (OCGA § 51-12-5.1), except for intentional harm or product liability.
- Evidence: Corporate records or driver histories (e.g., DUI convictions) support claims, increasing settlement value.
Factors Influencing Compensation Amounts
Several factors determine the value of a catastrophic injury settlement in Georgia:
- Severity of Injury: More debilitating injuries, like quadriplegia versus partial paralysis, yield higher compensation due to greater medical and lifestyle impacts.
- Strength of Evidence: Robust proof—medical records, accident reports, or traffic footage from Peachtree Street—strengthens claims, increasing offers.
- Defendant’s Resources: Insurance policy limits or corporate assets cap payouts, though multiple liable parties (e.g., driver and employer in an I-285 crash) can boost totals.
- Victim’s Age and Occupation: Younger victims or high earners in Atlanta face greater lost earning potential, raising damages.
- Negotiation Skill: Experienced attorneys counter insurer tactics, like blaming victim fault (OCGA § 51-11-7), to avoid reduced payouts.
- Publicity Risk: Defendants, like hospitals in Buckhead, may settle higher to avoid negative publicity.
Settlements typically range from $500,000 to several million, with severe cases (e.g., TBIs requiring lifelong care) often exceeding $2 million. Contact us at (404) 888-4444 or fill out our quick online form for a free consultation to take the first step toward justice and healing.
How to File a Catastrophic Injury Lawsuit in Georgia
Filing a catastrophic injury lawsuit in Georgia involves several key legal steps governed by state statutes. Victims or their families must follow a structured process to maximize their chances of obtaining justice and compensation.
1. Determining Liability
Under O.C.G.A. § 51-1-6, any party whose negligence causes a catastrophic injury can be held legally accountable. This may include reckless drivers, trucking companies, property owners, or medical professionals.
2. Statute of Limitations
Victims must file their lawsuit within two years from the date of injury, per O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33. Failure to meet this deadline can result in a case dismissal, barring victims from financial recovery.
3. Calculating Damages
Damages in catastrophic injury cases include:
- Medical Expenses: Emergency care, surgeries, ongoing rehabilitation (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-7).
- Lost Wages & Earning Capacity: Compensation for lost income and diminished ability to work (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-9).
- Pain and Suffering: Non-economic damages for emotional distress (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-6).
- Punitive Damages: In cases of egregious negligence, additional compensation may be awarded (O.C.G.A. § 51-12-5.1).
4. Filing the Lawsuit
A lawsuit begins with filing a complaint in the appropriate Georgia court, outlining the negligence, damages sought, and supporting evidence. Your attorney will negotiate with insurers, but if a fair settlement isn’t reached, the case may proceed to trial.
Get Legal Help for Your Catastrophic Injury Case in Georgia
If you or a loved one has suffered a life-changing injury due to someone else’s negligence, a dedicated Atlanta catastrophic injury lawyer can help you fight for justice. Contact us today for a free case evaluation and learn how we can help you secure the compensation you deserve.
Why You Need an Experienced Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
Suffering a catastrophic injury is life-changing, and navigating the legal process alone can be overwhelming. Unlike minor accidents, these cases involve permanent disabilities, long-term medical care, and complex legal battles. An experienced catastrophic injury attorney ensures that you receive the maximum compensation for your losses.
Here’s why hiring the right attorney is critical:
1. Proving Liability and Negligence
Establishing fault in catastrophic injury cases is more challenging than standard personal injury claims. A skilled lawyer gathers evidence, expert testimonies, and accident reconstruction reports to prove the other party’s negligence and hold them accountable.
2. Fighting Insurance Companies
Insurance companies prioritize profits over people, often offering low settlements or denying valid claims. A lawyer with experience in insurance negotiations knows how to counter these tactics and fight for the full amount you deserve.
3. Calculating Long-Term Costs
The financial impact of a catastrophic injury goes far beyond immediate medical expenses. Your lawyer will work with life care planners, economic experts, and medical specialists to determine the true cost of:
- Ongoing rehabilitation and therapy
- Home modifications for disabilities
- Lost earning capacity if you can’t return to work
- Future medical procedures and in-home care
4. Maximizing Settlements and Verdicts
Catastrophic injuries often result in multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements due to their devastating impact. A top-tier lawyer will build a case that maximizes your recovery, whether through negotiation or trial litigation.
5. Peace of Mind During Recovery
Legal battles can be stressful, especially when you’re focusing on healing. With a trusted catastrophic injury attorney handling the legal work, you and your family can prioritize recovery while knowing your case is in expert hands.
At Wetherington Law Firm, we’ve helped countless clients rebuild their lives after catastrophic injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us fight for the justice and financial security you deserve.
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Types of Catastrophic Injury Cases We Handle
Our firm has extensive experience representing clients in various catastrophic injury cases:
1. Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):
From concussions to severe brain damage, TBIs can impact memory, cognition, and personality, requiring specialized care.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis:
These injuries often result in partial or complete loss of mobility, drastically altering a person’s lifestyle and independence.
3. Amputations and Loss of Limbs:
The physical and emotional toll of losing a limb can be profound, affecting every aspect of daily life.
4. Severe Burn Injuries:
Burns can lead to chronic pain, infections, and permanent scarring, necessitating long-term treatment.
5. Permanent Disfigurement or Disability:
Injuries that cause visible scarring or permanent physical limitations often carry emotional and psychological burdens as well.
How Our Atlanta Catastrophic Injury Lawyers Can Help
Our team is committed to providing comprehensive legal support tailored to your unique situation.
1. Investigating the Cause of the Injury:
We thoroughly investigate every detail of your case, from gathering evidence to interviewing witnesses, to determine liability.
2. Working with Medical and Financial Experts:
By partnering with top experts, we build a strong case that demonstrates the full extent of your damages.
3. Negotiating with Insurance Companies:
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our lawyers have the skills and experience to push back and secure fair settlements.
4. Representing You in Court (if necessary):
While many cases settle out of court, we are always prepared to take your case to trial to fight for the justice you deserve.
What to Do After a Catastrophic Injury: A Step-by-Step Guide
Dealing with a catastrophic injury can feel overwhelming. It’s a life-altering event that affects not just the injured person but their loved ones too. Knowing what steps to take can make a huge difference in your recovery and ability to pursue justice. Let’s break it down step by step.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health comes first—always. After an injury, get medical help right away, even if you’re unsure about the severity. Some injuries, like traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries, might not show obvious symptoms right away but could worsen over time. Visiting a hospital or urgent care ensures you’re properly diagnosed and treated.
Why this matters: Your medical records will also serve as critical evidence if you decide to file a claim later.
2. Report the Incident
If the injury occurred due to an accident, such as a car crash or a workplace incident, make sure it’s reported. For vehicle accidents, call the police and file an official report. For workplace injuries, notify your employer immediately and complete the necessary forms.
Why this matters: These reports provide an official account of what happened, which can be helpful for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
3. Document Everything
Start keeping track of everything related to the injury. This includes:
- Photos of the injury and accident scene (if possible).
- Medical bills and reports.
- Communication with insurance companies.
- Any witnesses’ contact information.
Pro tip: Create a folder (physical or digital) where you store all these documents. It’s easier to keep things organized this way.
4. Avoid Speaking to Insurance Companies Alone
Insurance adjusters may contact you shortly after the incident. They might sound friendly, but remember, they work for the insurance company, not you. Avoid making statements or accepting settlements without consulting a lawyer.
Why this matters: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. A premature statement could harm your case.
5. Consult an Experienced Catastrophic Injury Lawyer
This is where having an expert in your corner really makes a difference. A catastrophic injury lawyer can:
- Review the details of your case.
- Handle negotiations with insurance companies.
- Help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
At Wetherington Law Firm, our Atlanta catastrophic injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, so you don’t pay a dime unless we win your case.
6. Focus on Recovery
Dealing with legal and financial issues can be stressful, but remember, your health is the top priority. Follow your doctor’s advice, attend therapy sessions, and focus on getting better. Let your legal team handle the complexities of your case.
7. Stay Informed Throughout the Process
Ask questions and stay in the loop with your lawyer. A good catastrophic injury lawyer will keep you updated and explain each step of the legal process in simple terms.
8. Plan for the Future
Catastrophic injuries often have long-term effects, from medical expenses to lifestyle changes. Your lawyer can help you secure compensation that considers future needs, such as ongoing therapy, home modifications, and lost earning capacity.
FAQs About Catastrophic Injury Claims in Atlanta
What Is the Statute of Limitations for Filing a Catastrophic Injury Claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, you generally have two years from the date of the injury to file a claim. However, exceptions may apply depending on the circumstances, such as cases involving minors, government entities, or delayed discovery of the injury. Consulting with an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer as soon as possible ensures you don’t miss any deadlines.
How Long Does It Take to Resolve a Catastrophic Injury Case?
The timeline for resolving a case can vary significantly based on factors like:
- The severity of the injury.
- The complexity of the case.
- Whether the case is settled out of court or goes to trial.
Some cases may settle within a few months, while others can take a year or more. At Wetherington Law Firm, we prioritize thorough case preparation to achieve the best possible outcome while striving for a timely resolution.
Do I Have to Pay Upfront for a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer?
No. At Wetherington Law Firm, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront. You only owe legal fees if we win your case and secure compensation for you.
What Should I Do If an Insurance Company Contacts Me?
If an insurance company reaches out, avoid giving detailed statements or accepting any settlement offers without consulting a lawyer. Insurance adjusters often try to minimize payouts, so having a lawyer represent your interests ensures you don’t settle for less than you deserve.
How Much Is My Catastrophic Injury Case Worth?
The value of your case depends on several factors, such as:
- The severity of your injury.
- The cost of medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Lost income and earning capacity.
- The emotional and psychological impact of the injury.
A lawyer can assess your unique situation and provide an estimate based on your specific circumstances.
Do I Need a Lawyer for My Catastrophic Injury Case?
Yes. Catastrophic injury cases are complex and often involve significant damages, making it crucial to have an experienced lawyer by your side. Your lawyer will handle the legal aspects—such as evidence collection, negotiations, and court representation—so you can focus on your recovery.
What Makes Wetherington Law Firm the Right Choice?
We have a proven track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our client-centered approach ensures we treat you with care, keep you informed, and fight tirelessly for the justice and compensation you deserve. Plus, our contingency fee structure means you can access top-tier legal representation with no financial risk.
How Long Will My Case Take?
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the case, but we strive to resolve claims as efficiently as possible without compromising on results.
Can I Afford a Catastrophic Injury Lawyer?
Yes. Our contingency fee structure ensures you can access top-tier legal representation without upfront costs.
Contact an Atlanta Catastrophic Injury Lawyer Today
Don’t let a catastrophic injury define your future. Contact Wetherington Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case, answer your questions, and guide you toward the justice and compensation you deserve. Fill out our online form to get started.