In Georgia, severe penalties will be assessed against those who are caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Furthermore, if an impaired drivers’ actions result in serious injuries, then the consequences for their misconduct can escalate significantly. These drivers may be charged with causing a “serious injury by vehicle.”
There is a broad interpretation for what constitutes a serious injury in this context. Some injuries that were understood to be severe enough to justify a conviction for serious injury by vehicle include loss of vision in one eye, blurry vision, broken ribs, and severe bruising. If the driver who caused your accident was charged with causing a serious injury by vehicle, then our legal team can help explain how the charge may impact your personal injury case.
Get support from our experienced Georgia car accident attorneys at Howe Law by dialing (844) 876-4357 for a free case review.
Examples of “Serious Injuries” in Georgia Car Accident Cases
Under Georgia law, the term “serious injury” in the context of serious injury by vehicle charges is not defined by a specific statute but is generally interpreted by the courts. While there is no comprehensive list of injuries that qualify as serious, the following are examples of injuries are commonly considered serious under this law:
Fractures
Fractures, or broken bones, are commonly regarded as serious injuries in the context of car accidents. When a person sustains a fracture due to a collision, it is typically classified as serious if it requires surgical intervention, prolonged medical treatment, or results in long-term impairment. Fractures can be not only physically painful but also emotionally distressing and financially burdensome because of the medical bills and potential loss of income during recovery. Fortunately, our Roswell, GA car accident lawyers can help acquire payment for these losses in your case.
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Traumatic Brain Injuries are among the most severe types of injuries associated with car accidents. They encompass a range of conditions from concussions to more severe brain trauma.
Traumatic brain injuries can have profound and long-lasting effects, including cognitive impairments, memory loss, mood disorders, and physical disabilities. These injuries often necessitate extensive medical care and rehabilitation, making them a prime example of what is considered a serious injury in Georgia.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord in a car accident can result in life-altering consequences. Serious spinal cord injuries may lead to paralysis, loss of motor function, and other debilitating conditions. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of these injuries is substantial. Victims often require ongoing medical treatment, adaptive equipment, and modifications to their living arrangements to accommodate their new physical limitations.
Amputations
The loss of a limb or body part due to a car accident is an unequivocal example of a serious injury. Amputations have a profound impact on an individual’s life, affecting their ability to perform everyday tasks and engage in gainful employment. The process of adapting to life with an amputation is challenging and often requires extensive rehabilitation and the use of prosthetic devices.
Permanent Disfigurement
Permanent disfigurement resulting from a car accident is another category of serious injury. Scarring and disfigurement can cause emotional distress and affect a person’s self-esteem and quality of life. In many cases, reconstructive surgery may be required to address the physical effects of disfigurement, adding to the overall impact on the victim.
Internal Injuries
Injuries to internal organs, such as the heart, lungs, or liver, can be life-threatening and are considered serious when they result from a car accident. These injuries may not always be immediately apparent, and their severity often becomes evident during medical evaluation. Internal injuries may necessitate surgical intervention, hospitalization, and long-term medical care.
Does Georgia Have a Serious Injury Threshold for Filing Car Accident Lawsuits?
In Georgia, there is no specific “serious injury threshold” that plaintiffs must meet in order to file a car accident lawsuit. Unlike some states that require a certain level of injury severity to pursue a personal injury claim, Georgia follows a traditional “at-fault” system for car accidents. This means that if you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Georgia, you can generally file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, regardless of the severity of your injuries.
However, it’s important to note that the extent of your injuries can significantly impact the potential compensation you may receive in a car accident case. More severe injuries often lead to higher settlements or verdicts because of the associated medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
What to Do if You Suffered a Serious Car Accident Injury in Georgia
If you’ve experienced a serious car accident injury in Georgia, it’s essential to take immediate actions to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
First and foremost, seek medical attention promptly. Your health should always be your top priority. Even if you don’t think your injuries are severe, some injuries may not present symptoms immediately. A medical examination can identify hidden injuries and provide you with proper documentation for your case.
If possible, you should attempt to collect as much evidence as possible at your accident’s scene. Take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, your injuries, and any relevant road signs or conditions. Also, it may help to obtain contact information from any witnesses who observed your collision.
When conversing with other parties about your accident, it is crucial that you do not apologize or make statements that can be construed as admissions of fault. These statements can be used against your during later stages of your potential lawsuit.
Finally, you should contact our legal team as soon as possible. We will help build your claim and handle all communications with the defendant. Further, we will ensure that your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process.
Call Our Car Accident Lawyers for Help with Your Claim in Georgia
Seek assistance from our experienced Atlanta car accident lawyers by calling Howe Law today at (844) 876-4357.
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