Workplace accidents happen in all sectors and range from construction accidents and work-related car wrecks to the general office accident. Just as the accident type varies, so too does the resulting injury. Any damage—such as chemical burns, total knee replacement, total hip replacement, heart attack and stroke, carpal tunnel, vision, hearing, and eye injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, psychological injuries, and more—is covered under workers’ compensation. While some workers fully recover from their injuries and are able to resume work, some suffer such great harm they never return to their job. The latter is what we in the industry refer to as “catastrophic.”
An injury is deemed “catastrophic” when a victim is unable to ever go back to work and deemed permanently disabled. These injuries can have a serious impact on your life, the lives of your family and loved ones, and your future. As a worker, it is your right to reclaim your life and seek out compensation for your loss. Workers’ compensation coverage provides a source of financial stability following such a catastrophe, but it is imperative you seek out the “catastrophic” designation to access these expanded coverage options.
The definition of “catastrophic injury” in the Georgia Workers’ Compensation Act, Official Code of Georgia, Annotated, §34-9-200.1 is an injury that falls into one of the following categories:
- Spinal cord injury
- Amputation
- Severe brain or closed head injury
- Second- or third-degree burns
- Total or industrial blindness
- Any other injury of a nature and severity that prevents the employee working
The process of determining the “catastrophic” distinction can sometimes be cumbersome. This is where a knowledgeable workers’ compensation attorney can help.
With over 20 years of experience handling these types of severe injuries and helping victims navigate the numerous roadblocks and obstacles along the way, Poirier Law Firm is here to provide assurance for even the gravest of trauma and suffering. Let us fight for your rights following an on-the-job injury—reach out today.