Paralysis Workers' Compensation Claims
Paralysis Workers’ Compensation Claims in Atlanta
Paralysis can manifest as either partial or permanent, leading to the loss of movement in one or more extremities. It can lead to diminished sensation and mobility, and the prospect of returning to work may be limited.
You might lose the function of an arm or learn to use a wheelchair due to an inability to move your limbs. The impact of surgeries, prolonged hospital stays, and the inability to work—even temporarily—can be life-altering.
At The Law Offices of Darwin F. Johnson, we understand that any form of paralysis can profoundly affect your:
- Independence
- Career
- Family life
- Hobbies and passions
We have extensive experience guiding our clients through paralysis workers’ compensation claims in Atlanta. Call 404-521-2667to schedule a free consultation.
How We Can Help
Workplace Accidents that Can Cause Paralysis
Many types of workplace accidents can cause paralysis, including:
- Slips and falls
- Being struck by an object, machinery, collapsing structure, or other hazards
- A work-related motor vehicle accident
- Falls from great heights
- Lifting heavy objects without the proper technique or equipment
- Being pinned or crushed on the job (common in construction, factory, or transportation occupations)
Any accident that causes a spinal cord injury can result in paralysis.
In many cases, those suffering spinal cord injuries will require care in the form of:
- Extensive and ongoing medical care
- Physical and occupational therapy
- Surgery
- Medication
- Experimental treatments
- Mental health services
Workers’ compensation can significantly help you cover the costs associated with these vital services that you will need for a successful recovery. This financial support typically includes medical expenses, rehabilitation services, and even lost wages during your time off work so that you can focus on healing without the added stress of financial burdens.
Over $250 Million Recovered. Over 10,000 Cases Handled.
What Happens if I am Unable to Return to Work Because of My Injury?
Depending on the severity of the injury, paralysis may be total or permanent.
In Georgia, paralysis and other spinal cord injuries may qualify for permanent total disability, or PTD.
PTD benefits will continue for the rest of your life or until the injury improves. To qualify for PTD, you will need to prove that your condition qualifies as a catastrophic injury under the law.
The more severe the workplace injury, the more complex the workers’ comp claim becomes. If paralysis leaves you unable to return to the workplace, it is crucial to work with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the process of filing a claim and seeking PTD benefits.
If your case does not have a catastrophic determination, your benefits may stop after 400 weeks. Our attorneys can help prove that your injuries are catastrophic so you can continue to receive the benefits you need.
Injured On The Job?
To be eligible for Workers Compensation, You must have incurred at least one of the following criteria from each section to qualify:
- On-The-Job Injury
- Injury occurred while working
- Injured due to the job you perform
- Employment Status
- You are a legal employee of the person or company you work for
- The company or person you work for has 3+ employees regularly in service
If you have not experienced or only have one piece of criteria from the above, please see our Personal Injury section to see how we can help you recover.
Why You Need an Experienced Lawyer in Your Corner
Paralysis is a catastrophic, life-changing injury that may leave you unable to return to work. Workers’ compensation can provide vital benefits to help you get the care and rehabilitation you need to recover.
When faced with a serious workplace injury, such as paralysis, it is crucial to work with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney to navigate the claim process. The insurance company may try to deny your claim to protect their bottom line. Our attorneys do not back down and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us online or call 404-521-2667 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your paralysis workers’ compensation claim in Atlanta.
Case Illustration of Paralysis Due to a Workplace Injury
Adam works at a warehouse in Atlanta, where he balances his job with family life, including a wife and child at home. One day, while on the job, a forklift operator accidentally reversed into a large box filled with industrial parts and equipment.
Unfortunately, a tall box struck Adam, causing him to collapse to the floor as it pinned his arm beneath it.
He now suffers from a brachial plexus, causing extreme weakness in his arm and an inability to move his hand. The pain is intense, so he will file a workers’ compensation claim to help pay for medical bills. He will also qualify for income benefits.
Thankfully, the incident is well documented, so he does not need to worry about the insurance company arguing that his injuries are not related to the accident.
Types of Paralysis Injuries that Employees Suffer at Work
Paralysis can come in many forms, and while many people relate it to being unable to walk, paralysis can manifest as:
- Diplegia: A form of paralysis that impacts a certain body part on both sides of the body. For example, losing the ability to move either ankle.
- Hemiplegia: When paralysis only affects a single side of your body, it is considered hemiplegia.
- Monoplegia: The paralysis of a single limb. For example, losing the function of your left arm or of your right hand.
- Paraplegia: A form of paralysis that impacts your trunk (core and back) and your legs.
- Quadriplegia: Loss of function in all four limbs and your trunk.
It is important to note that while you may suffer from a form of paralysis now, occupational and physical therapy may be able to help you regain the function of your limb or limbs.
All forms of paralysis are serious, but some are more severe than others. A person who is classified as suffering from paraplegia or quadriplegia may also lose the function of some organs, depending on the type of injury.
Sometimes, an injury may not result in paralysis 99 out of 100 times, but in your case, it did. Even a slip and fall that looks minor can lead to paralysis if you hit your head the right way or injure your spinal cord.
After a workplace injury, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and protect your financial well-being. Filing a workers’ compensation claim can provide essential support for medical expenses, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs.
FAQ's
About Workplace Paralysis Claims in the Greater Atlanta Areas:
Are there limitations on workers’ compensation benefits for paralysis?
Yes, benefits are typically calculated based on your average weekly wage and may have caps.
How long does the workers’ compensation claims process take for paralysis cases?
These cases are complex and can take a significant amount of time. An attorney can help expedite the process.
Will workers’ compensation cover long-term care and home modifications?
Yes, benefits can cover necessary medical treatment, rehabilitation, long-term care, and home modifications.
What are the specific legal challenges that may arise in a paralysis injury claim?
Challenges include proving the injury was work-related, establishing the extent of disability, and navigating disputes with insurance companies.
How can I find a qualified workers’ compensation lawyer?
Our attorneys at The Law Offices of Darwin F. Johnson have a proven track record of handling complex workers’ compensation claims, particularly those involving paralysis. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.