A large number of people are injured each year as the result of car accidents in Brookhaven. Unfortunately, many of these crashes stem from drivers’ negligence. For example, collisions regularly occur because motorists are driving distracted, speeding, or ignoring traffic signals.
Thankfully, if you suffered a car accident, then you may be able to recover compensation for the injuries you incurred. The team at our law firm can review your case and assess the strength of your claim against the other driver. Furthermore, we can explain which forms of monetary damages may be available to you.
In the aftermath of your collision in Brookhaven, seek support from our experienced car accident lawyers by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357.
What Happens if You Share Blame for Your Accident in Brookhaven, GA?
There are multiple situations where car accident victims can share blame for their accidents. For example, someone may be partially responsible for their crash if they were speeding when they were struck by a driver who ran a red light. Further, fault may be shared for an accident where a drunk driver struck another motorist with a broken brake light.
If you share blame for your collision, you may still recover financial compensation for the damages you sustained. However, the amount of payment you are awarded can be reduced.
Georgia courts will abide by the rules of “modified comparative negligence” when assigning damages in car crash cases. This means that damages are awarded based on parties’ percentages of fault. As an example, if you are 20% to blame for your collision while the defendant is 80% at fault, then they will have to account for 80% of your damages while you must pay for the remaining 20%.
It is important to note that if your share of blame meets or exceeds 50%, then you will be unable to recover compensation in a car accident lawsuit. Our car accident lawyers can help build your case and establish that the defendant is at fault. Therefore, you may acquire the full range of compensation you are owed.
Common Car Accident Injuries Suffered by Plaintiffs in Brookhaven, GA
Car crashes can result in various types of debilitating and painful injuries. Many of such injuries require costly medical treatments in order to heal properly. Thankfully, if you suffered any of the following, then you may be able to recover compensation from the party who caused your accident:
Fractured Bones
Fractured bones are a common type of car accident injury that occurs when the force of impact is very strong. The impact can be localized or widespread, leading to various types of fractures such as simple, compound, or comminuted fractures. For example, in a severe collision, a car accident victim may suffer a fractured leg or arm when the limbs hit the dashboard or door panel with significant force.
The treatment for fractured bones often involves immobilization with casts or splints to allow the bones to heal properly. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the bones and promote proper healing.
Spinal Cord Damage
Spinal cord damage is one of the most devastating car accident injuries, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Rear-end collisions are common causes of such damage. For example, a rear-end collision can cause severe whiplash that injures a victim’s neck and spinal cord.
Treatment for spinal cord damage focuses on stabilizing the spine to prevent further injury and providing rehabilitation therapy to improve functionality. However, full recovery is often challenging, and the focus is on maximizing the individual’s independence and quality of life.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Traumatic brain injuries occur when the head experiences a sudden impact, leading to damage in brain tissues. These injuries can range from mild concussions to severe brain contusions or hemorrhages. For instance, if a car accident victim’s head strikes the windshield during a collision, they may suffer a traumatic brain injury.
Medical professionals may use imaging techniques like CT scans or MRIs to assess the extent of the brain injury. Treatment for traumatic brain injuries often includes rest, medication to control brain swelling, and rehabilitation therapies to aid in cognitive and physical recovery.
Soft Tissue Damage
Soft tissue damage involves injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Car accident victims commonly experience soft tissue injuries due to the abrupt and forceful movements during a collision. For example, sudden deceleration in a car accident can strain or tear the muscles and ligaments in the neck, causing whiplash. The treatment for soft tissue damage often includes rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair torn tissues.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries can be life-threatening and may not always be immediately apparent after a car accident. They can include damage to organs, internal bleeding, or ruptured blood vessels. For instance, a side-impact collision can cause a victim’s chest to impact the steering wheel, leading to internal injuries like a ruptured spleen or liver. Prompt medical attention is critical to diagnose and treat internal injuries properly. Treatment may involve surgery to repair damaged organs and control bleeding, along with close monitoring during the recovery period.
Burns
Car accidents can also lead to burns, especially in cases where the vehicle catches fire or hazardous materials are involved. Burn injuries can vary in severity, from first-degree burns (mild) to third-degree burns (most severe, affecting multiple layers of skin and tissues). For example, a car accident victim may suffer burns from hot metal or fluids if the engine or other car parts are exposed and cause a fire. Burn injury treatments may involve cleaning and dressing the wound, skin grafts, and extensive wound care to prevent infection and promote healing.
Psychological Injuries
In addition to physical injuries, car accidents can cause psychological trauma, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety. The emotional impact of a car accident can be long-lasting and affect a person’s ability to function in daily life. For example, a car accident victim may develop a fear of driving or experience flashbacks and nightmares related to the collision. Psychological injuries are often addressed through therapy, counseling, and, if necessary, medications to manage anxiety and depression.
Call Our Car Accident Attorneys Today for Assistance with Your Case in Brookhaven, GA
Seek help from our car accident attorneys at Howe Law by dialing (844) 876-4357.