What is a Catastrophic Injury?
A catastrophic injury is any injury that permanently prevents an individual from performing gainful work or living independently. Unlike other personal injuries, these types of injuries often involve long-term or lifelong medical care, extensive rehabilitation, and significant lifestyle adjustments.
Under Georgia law, catastrophic injuries may include but are not limited to:
- Severe brain or spinal cord injuries
- Amputations
- Paralysis
- Loss of sight or hearing
- Severe burns
- Multiple bone fractures
- Neurological damage
The key distinction lies in the severity and long-term implications of the injury. These cases often require not only legal expertise but also a thorough understanding of medical and economic factors. That’s where a seasoned Alpharetta catastrophic injury lawyer becomes invaluable.
Common Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries can arise from a variety of incidents. At Van Sant Law, we have handled a wide range of catastrophic injury claims, including:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Often caused by falls, vehicle crashes, or violent assaults, TBIs can lead to permanent cognitive impairments, memory loss, and emotional instability.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal damage can result in partial or complete paralysis, including paraplegia or quadriplegia. These injuries usually require lifelong care and mobility aids.
- Amputations: Loss of a limb not only causes physical disability but also emotional trauma. Prosthetics, surgeries, and therapy can be enormously costly.
- Severe Burn Injuries: Third-degree burns often require skin grafts, surgeries, and intensive wound care. They may leave disfigurements and psychological scars.
- Organ Damage: Major accidents may lead to permanent damage to internal organs, affecting the victim’s ability to function normally.
- Loss of Vision or Hearing: These life-altering injuries often make it difficult or impossible for individuals to maintain their previous employment or lifestyle.
If you or someone you love has suffered one of these injuries in Alpharetta, it's crucial to consult an experienced catastrophic injury lawyer as soon as possible.
The Devastating Impact of Catastrophic Injuries
Catastrophic injuries affect every aspect of a person’s life. Beyond the immediate physical trauma, victims often face long-term or permanent consequences that drastically alter their way of life. The effects can include:
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma: Depression, anxiety, and PTSD are common among catastrophic injury survivors. The loss of independence and normalcy can be overwhelming.
- Loss of Income and Career: In many cases, victims are unable to return to their previous job—or any job—resulting in significant lost wages and future earning capacity.
- Strain on Family and Relationships: Family members may become full-time caregivers, placing an emotional, physical, and financial burden on the entire household.
- Financial Struggles: Medical bills, rehabilitation, adaptive devices, and home modifications can cost hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of dollars.
Our team at Van Sant Law understands the complex and lifelong effects of these injuries. As your Alpharetta catastrophic injury lawyer, we are committed to helping you recover the full compensation you need to rebuild your life.
see how we've made a difference
If you are hesitating to call us for help, take a look at our recent case results.
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$710,000 $710k Settlement for Claims Involving Injuries From Motorcycle Wreck
Settlement for Claims Involving Injuries From Motorcycle Wreck
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$150,000 $150k for Client Who Injured Knee in Accident When at Fault Driver Failed to Yield
For Client Who Injured Knee in Accident When at Fault Driver Failed to Yield
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$497,000 $497k Verdict at Trial for an Individual Who Was Struck by a Drunk Driver
Verdict at Trial for an Individual Who Was Struck by a Drunk Driver
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$160,000 $160k Settlement for Man in Rear-End Collision
Settlement for Man in Rear-End Collision
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$335,000 $335k for a Man Rear-Ended by a Landscape Truck
For a Man Rear-Ended by a Landscape Truck
Catastrophic Injury Claim FAQs
How long do I have to file a catastrophic injury claim in Georgia?
In Georgia, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically two years from the date of the injury. However, some exceptions may apply. It’s best to consult with a qualified Alpharetta catastrophic injury lawyer as soon as possible.
What types of accidents commonly lead to catastrophic injuries?
Car accidents, motorcycle accidents, workplace injuries, falls, sports injuries, defective products, and medical malpractice are common causes.
Can I still file a claim if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you were less than 50% at fault, you may still recover damages—though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
How is compensation determined in catastrophic injury cases?
Damages are based on the severity of the injury, medical costs, impact on earning ability, and emotional trauma. We work with financial and medical experts to calculate the full value of your claim.
What makes a catastrophic injury case different from other personal injury claims?
The scope of damages, complexity of evidence, and long-term consequences require specialized legal strategies, expert testimony, and higher settlement negotiations.
How We Help Catastrophic Injury Victims in Alpharetta
At Van Sant Law, we build strong cases by thoroughly investigating the cause of your injury, working with medical experts, and calculating the full extent of your damages. We pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses (past, current, and future)
- Lost wages and loss of earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Home and vehicle modifications
- Long-term care and rehabilitation
- Loss of enjoyment of life
We are prepared to negotiate aggressively with insurance companies or take your case to trial if necessary. Our goal is to ensure that you are not left facing a lifetime of hardship without the resources you need.
Contact us through our website or call (800) 234-9556.
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Proven Record of Results
Van Sant Law has recovered millions in compensation for our clients’ benefit.
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Years of Experience
Van Sant Law is committed to professional and experienced personal injury representation.
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Awards and Accolades
10.0 “Superb” rating on Avvo™, Super Lawyers Rising Stars, National Trial Lawyers Association Top 40 Under 40
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Strategic and Aggressive
Our legal team includes former defense attorneys for large insurers who know how they settle injury claims.
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Personal and Compassionate
Our firm works hard to ensure that your needs are taken care of during your recovery time. We work for you so you can get your life back.
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No Fee Guarantee
Our firm works on a contingency fee basis. Meaning there are no fees or costs unless we recover compensation for you!
At Van Sant Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"My results have been positive & I would highly recommend Van Sant Law to family & friends."
I had a head on collusion that left me with a totaled car & very bad injuries. From the first time I spoke to David Van Sant to the end I have been totally satisfied. I worked with Patricia she was very compassionate yet professional she was always ready to answer any concerns that I might have. I am grateful that my daughter found this law firm for me.
- Karen J. -
"Van Sant is the place to go."
R. Shannon Carpenter is the guy to call! Because of him I got a far larger compensation than I ever expect and the whole process was stress free for me!
- Chase V. -
"Van Sant Law took care of everything."
Back in March I was involved in a rear end collision accident. The are very professional and will do whatever it takes to get the best possible offer when it comes with the insurance. 5/5 will recommend to everyone
- Juan S. -
"We were thrilled with the support from Van Sant."
The team really helped us as we navigated the claims process after our oldest child had his car totaled by a drunk driver! They were incredibly professional and helped us through every step of the process! Would absolutely recommend their services! Thank you!
- Josiah B. -
"Very knowledgeable, straight forward and communicated with me every step of the way."
I used Van Sant Law for my auto accident claim and I'm so glad I did! Parker, my attorney, was especially great. He really eased my pain and got me the best settlement possible. I highly recommend Van Sant Law. They did right by me and I'm very happy with their level of service.
- Mark A. -
"Van Sant Law was the right support to call after my car accident with my daughter."They were referred to me by a close friend of mine. Extremely professional, and asked the language I feel comfortable to discuss my case in. Alex Rusanov was my case manager and explained every aspect of my case during the process. I would highly recommend to use this law firm if you were injured in a car accident. Drive safe and stay alert!- Angela
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"The team was personable, efficient and guided me through the process with ease."
I had the best experience with VanSant Law. I am forever grateful for Van Sant Law and will use them in the future.
- Moe -
"I highly recommend him as a personal injury attorney."
My attorney, David Van Sant and his law firm were outstanding in handling my personal injury case. I was out of work for a considerable amount of time due to an automobile accident and Mr. Van Sant and his entire team were always kind, professional, knowledgeable and especially available. This law firm did their absolute best to answer and return calls and at no time did I ever feel like just a number or stranger. My experience with Mr. Van Sant and his law firm (from beginning to end), were very positive as well as favorable.
- Lars S.
Our firm is dedicated and committed to providing you with the best legal services possible, from your education on the issues to fighting for positive results for your case. Through a free, initial consultation, we will make sure you understand the best way to approach your case, and we’ll review any relevant documents that you provide us with to make sure we have a full, detailed picture of your situation.
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