{"id":18551,"date":"2026-10-28T08:49:17","date_gmt":"2026-10-28T08:49:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/what-to-do-after-catastrophic-injury-accident-georgia\/"},"modified":"2026-10-28T08:49:46","modified_gmt":"2026-10-28T08:49:46","slug":"what-to-do-after-catastrophic-injury-accident-georgia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/what-to-do-after-catastrophic-injury-accident-georgia\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do After a Catastrophic Injury Accident in Georgia"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-80 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background wp-image-18549\" alt=\"A physical therapist guides a patient using parallel bars in a bright hospital rehabilitation gym.\" src=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-physical-therapist-guides-a-patient-using-parallel-bars-in-photo-4.jpg\" width=\"1376\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-physical-therapist-guides-a-patient-using-parallel-bars-in-photo-4-150x150.jpg 150w, https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-physical-therapist-guides-a-patient-using-parallel-bars-in-photo-4-300x167.jpg 300w, https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-physical-therapist-guides-a-patient-using-parallel-bars-in-photo-4-768x429.jpg 768w, https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-physical-therapist-guides-a-patient-using-parallel-bars-in-photo-4-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-physical-therapist-guides-a-patient-using-parallel-bars-in-photo-4.jpg 1376w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 825px) 825px, 100vw\" fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Catastrophic Injuries | Duluth, Georgia<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">After a Catastrophic Injury, Know Your First Steps<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Plain-language guidance from Slam Dunk Attorney for people hurt in serious accidents across metro Atlanta and Georgia.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+14049513513\">Request a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/contact-us\/\">Request a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Peter F. Jaraysi \u00b7 Published October 28, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n\n<p>If you were seriously hurt in an accident, the first steps are to get safe, get medical care, and protect proof of what happened. This guide explains what to do after a catastrophic injury accident in Georgia, in the order most people need it. Think of it as a checklist for the first days and weeks.<\/p>\n<p>Slam Dunk Attorney is a personal injury firm based in Duluth, Georgia. It represents people hurt in car, truck, motorcycle, rideshare, and other accidents across metro Atlanta and Georgia.<\/p>\n<h2>What Counts as a Catastrophic Injury in Georgia<\/h2>\n<p>A catastrophic injury is serious harm that is often permanent and changes how a person lives, works, and cares for family. The term usually describes injuries with long-lasting effects. Common examples include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Spinal cord injury and paralysis.<\/strong> Paralysis is a loss of muscle function. It can result from a spinal cord injury or a broken neck (<a href=\"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/paralysis.html\">MedlinePlus paralysis overview<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Traumatic brain injury.<\/strong> These injuries can range from mild to catastrophic. They may cause coma, death, or lasting problems (<a href=\"https:\/\/braintrauma.org\/s\/Prehospital_3rd_Edition.pdf\">Brain Trauma Foundation guidelines<\/a>).<\/li>\n<li><strong>Amputation and severe burns.<\/strong> Both often require surgery, long recovery, and ongoing care.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Our firm handles these injuries from many kinds of accidents. These include car, truck, motorcycle, pedestrian, rideshare, dog bite, premises liability, slip and fall, negligent security, short-term rental, and nursing home cases. Each type has its own rules. For example, a person who owns or keeps a vicious or dangerous animal may be liable if careless management or letting it run loose causes injury to a person who does not provoke the injury by his own act (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-2017-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-2-7<\/a>). For the full picture, read our <a href=\"\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/\">catastrophic injuries guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If someone you love was hurt this badly, you don&#x27;t have to work out the next steps alone, and our team is ready to talk through what happened. Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+14049513513\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-close-up-of-a-young-girl-s-bandaged-leg-while-she-sits-in-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A close-up of a young girl&#x27;s bandaged leg resting on a wheelchair.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Call 911 and Make Sure Everyone Is Safe<\/h2>\n<p>Your first step is safety, then a call to 911, even if the injury looks minor. Move to a safe spot if you can, and turn on your hazard lights. Stay away from traffic, fire, and other hazards.<\/p>\n<p>Tell the dispatcher if anyone is unresponsive, bleeding heavily, or unable to move. Those details help responders decide how fast to act.<\/p>\n<p>Do not move someone who may have a spinal injury unless they are in immediate danger, such as fire or moving traffic. Keep the person still and talk to them calmly. Let trained responders handle any lifting.<\/p>\n<p>A fall on someone else&#8217;s property or a dog bite calls for different steps. Get the person away from the hazard or the animal first. Then call for help. Do not try to handle a dog yourself. Your own safety comes first.<\/p>\n<h2>Get Medical Care Right Away and Keep Following Up<\/h2>\n<p>Get checked by a medical provider the same day, even if you feel able to walk away. A head injury can be serious even when the person feels fine at first. An early evaluation matters, even when the first symptoms seem mild.<\/p>\n<p>Tell every provider exactly how the accident happened. Then list every symptom, including headaches, dizziness, numbness, tingling, confusion, or trouble sleeping. Describe each one, even if it seems unrelated.<\/p>\n<p>Keep every follow-up appointment, therapy session, and imaging test. Ask for copies of discharge papers and visit summaries. Keep every bill and insurance explanation.<\/p>\n<p>Gaps in care matter. If weeks pass with no treatment, insurers often question how serious the injury was. If you miss an appointment, reschedule it and write down the reason, such as transportation or work.<\/p>\n<h2>Report the Crash and Get the Police Report<\/h2>\n<p>Before you leave the scene, ask the responding officer for the report or incident number. Then give a factual account of what happened. Describe what you saw, heard, and did.<\/p>\n<p>Do not guess about who was at fault. Do not say you are fine if you are not. Early statements are often repeated later, so accuracy matters more than speed.<\/p>\n<p>Once the report is complete, ask the responding agency how to get a copy. Check it for errors, and tell the agency about any mistake you find.<\/p>\n<p>If the other driver fled, write down everything you can. Note the vehicle&#8217;s make, color, partial plate, direction of travel, and any witnesses. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t33-ch1-22-(v24)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11<\/a>, if the owner or operator is unknown, the insured or someone on his behalf must report the accident as Code Section 40-6-273 requires in order to recover under the endorsement. That report is needed for uninsured motorist coverage.<\/p>\n<h2>Document the Scene and Exchange Information<\/h2>\n<p>Photos, names, and notes from the scene are often the first proof of what happened. Take photos from several angles. Capture vehicles, the roadway or property, skid marks, debris, signs, weather, and visible injuries.<\/p>\n<p>For a slip and fall, photograph the spill, the floor, the lighting, and any warning signs or their absence. For a dog bite, photograph the wounds and, if it is safe, the animal&#8217;s location.<\/p>\n<p>Exchange names, phone numbers, insurance details, license plates, and driver&#8217;s license information with the other party. Write down what the other person says. Collect the names and phone numbers of witnesses, including anyone who left before police arrived.<\/p>\n<p>Write down what you remember while it is fresh. Include the time, the weather, where people were standing, and what was said. Memory fades quickly, so a short note made that day is more useful than a detailed one made months later.<\/p>\n<h2>Notify Your Own Insurance and Be Careful With Recorded Statements<\/h2>\n<p>Report the accident to your own insurer promptly. Keep the claim number and the adjuster&#8217;s name. Put calls and letters in writing when you can, and keep a simple log of dates, names, and offers.<\/p>\n<p>Other insurers may ask for a recorded statement or a signed medical authorization. Before you agree, ask what the recording will be used for and what the form lets them see. You can take time to decide. Read any form before you sign it.<\/p>\n<p>Ask your own insurer about uninsured motorist coverage. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t33-ch1-22-(v24)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 33-7-11<\/a>, auto policies must include an endorsement that pays for bodily injury caused by an uninsured motor vehicle&#8217;s owner or operator. Review your policy&#8217;s limits so you know what it provides.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+14049513513\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/contact-us\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Protect Evidence and Watch the Filing Deadline<\/h2>\n<p>Georgia generally gives two years to file a lawsuit for injuries to a person. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t9-ch1-10-(v6)-2023-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 9-3-33<\/a>, that period runs from when the right of action accrues. Loss of consortium claims have four years under the same statute.<\/p>\n<p>Some claims have shorter first steps. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t35-t36-ch1-59-(v27)-2025-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 36-33-5<\/a>, a claim against a city must be presented in writing within six months of the event. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t50-ch13-40-(v38a)-2021-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 50-21-26<\/a>, written notice of a claim against the state must be given within 12 months of when the loss was discovered or should have been discovered.<\/p>\n<p>Fault also matters. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33<\/a>, damages are reduced by the injured person&#8217;s share of fault. A person 50 percent or more at fault recovers nothing (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33<\/a>; <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gasupreme.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/s19g1612.pdf\">Quynn v. Hulsey (2020)<\/a>). Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33<\/a>, when the plaintiff is to some degree responsible for the injury or damages claimed, the judge reduces the damages awarded in proportion to the plaintiff&#8217;s percentage of fault, and the plaintiff is not entitled to receive any damages if the plaintiff is 50 percent or more responsible.<\/p>\n<p>Protect the evidence. Keep damaged clothing, helmets, phones, and vehicle parts. Do not repair or dispose of a vehicle until its condition is documented. Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries online.<\/p>\n<h2>Plan for Long-Term Needs and Family Members Affected<\/h2>\n<p>Serious injuries often bring ongoing care, equipment, and home changes, so planning should start early. Keep a running file of medical bills, missed work, mileage to appointments, and changes in daily activities. Note what the person can no longer do, such as cooking, driving, or climbing stairs.<\/p>\n<p>Home changes can be costly. Our page on home modification costs after a catastrophic injury explains common changes.<\/p>\n<p>Family members can have their own rights. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-4-2<\/a>, a surviving spouse, or children if there is no surviving spouse, may recover the full value of a decedent&#8217;s life as shown by the evidence. The surviving spouse receives no less than one-third of that recovery. A spouse may also have a loss of consortium claim, as explained on our spouse claim page.<\/p>\n<p>Some injuries worsen or lead to death months after the accident. Our page on deaths months after an accident covers that situation.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/close-up-of-a-foot-in-a-white-cast-resting-on-a-wheelchair-f-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up of a foot in a white cast resting on a wheelchair footrest indoors.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Talk With Our Team About Your Situation<\/h2>\n<p>If you are reading this while caring for a loved one in the hospital, or while recovering yourself, you do not have to sort out every step alone. Our team at Slam Dunk Attorney can review the facts of your accident and explain your options in plain terms.<\/p>\n<p>Our first consultation is free, confidential, and comes with no obligation to continue. To talk with us, reach out through our <a href=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/contact-us\/\">contact page<\/a> and request a free consultation.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Responsible lawyer:<\/strong> Peter F. Jaraysi, Slam Dunk Attorney, Duluth, Georgia. Contact: <a href=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/contact-us\/\">contact page<\/a>. This page is general information about Georgia law, not advice about any specific case.<\/p>\n<h3>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h3><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What should I do first after a catastrophic injury accident in Georgia?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get to safety and call 911. Then get medical care the same day, even if the injury seems minor.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How long do I have to file a lawsuit in Georgia?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Georgia generally gives two years for injuries to a person under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t9-ch1-10-(v6)-2023-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 9-3-33<\/a>. Claims against cities or the state can have shorter first steps.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Does Georgia reduce compensation if I was partly at fault?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t51-(v39)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 51-12-33<\/a> (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gasupreme.us\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/11\/s19g1612.pdf\">Quynn v. Hulsey (2020)<\/a>), damages are reduced by your share of fault, and a person 50 percent or more at fault recovers nothing.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can I sue Uber or Lyft after a rideshare crash?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ride share company liability is limited under <a href=\"https:\/\/www.legis.ga.gov\/api\/document\/docs\/default-source\/joint-features-document-library\/t40-ch1-5-(v28a)-pdf.pdf\">O.C.G.A. \u00a7 40-1-201<\/a>. Whether a claim can go forward depends on the facts.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Should I see a doctor after a head injury if I feel fine?<\/summary><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. Some head injuries are hard to judge at first, so an evaluation is the safer choice.<\/p><\/details><\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>Attorney advertising. The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice; reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship with Slam Dunk Attorney. Peter F. Jaraysi is the lawyer responsible for this content. Slam Dunk Attorney, 2250 Satellite Blvd, Ste. 120, Duluth, GA 30097, 678-648-4238.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">What to Do Right After the Accident<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get to safety and call 911<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are able, move away from traffic or danger and call 911. A police report and an emergency response create an official record of what happened.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Get medical care the same day<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some serious injuries, including brain injuries and spinal cord damage, may not show symptoms right away. A prompt medical evaluation protects your health and documents your injuries.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Document the scene<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If it is safe, take photos of the vehicles, the location, visible injuries, and any hazards. Collect names and contact information for witnesses and other parties.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Be careful with insurance calls<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Insurance adjusters may ask for recorded statements soon after an accident. Consider speaking with a lawyer before giving a statement or signing anything.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Do not assume an injury is minor<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Adrenaline can mask pain and symptoms can appear hours or days later. Tell every provider about the accident, and keep copies of all medical records and bills.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+14049513513\">Call for a Free Case Review<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/contact-us\/\">Call for a Free Case Review<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">How Slam Dunk Attorney Can Help<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--chat\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free first consultation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your initial consultation is free, confidential, and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--heart\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focus on catastrophic injuries<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We focus on serious cases, including spinal cord injuries and paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, amputations, severe burns, and wrongful death.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Serving metro Atlanta and Georgia<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our firm is based in Duluth and represents people across metro Atlanta and throughout Georgia, including Lawrenceville, Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Marietta, Norcross, Kennesaw, and Dunwoody.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--users\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Our team is here to listen<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our lawyers and staff take the time to explain your options in plain language so you can make informed decisions during a difficult time.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Talk to Slam Dunk Attorney About Your Accident<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+14049513513\">Request a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/contact-us\/\">Request a Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/what-to-do-after-spinal-cord-injury-georgia\/\">What to Do After a Spinal Cord Injury in a Georgia Accident<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/who-pays-lifetime-care-catastrophic-injury-georgia\/\">Who Pays for Lifetime Medical Care After a Catastrophic Injury in Georgia?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/amputation-injury-lawyer-georgia\/\">Amputation Injury Lawyer in Georgia: Free Consultation<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/catastrophic-accident-lawyer-georgia\/\">Catastrophic Accident Lawyer in Georgia<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/catastrophic-injury-litigation-georgia\/\">Catastrophic Injury Litigation in Georgia: How a Lawsuit Is Handled<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Seriously hurt in Georgia? Learn the first steps after a catastrophic injury accident: safety, medical care, evidence, insurance calls, and key deadlines.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":15368,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[{\"hreflang\": \"en\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/what-to-do-after-catastrophic-injury-accident-georgia\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"es\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/es\/lesiones-catastroficas-georgia\/que-hacer-tras-lesion-catastrofica-georgia\/\"}, {\"hreflang\": \"x-default\", \"href\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/catastrophic-injuries-georgia\/what-to-do-after-catastrophic-injury-accident-georgia\/\"}]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"about\": [{\"name\": \"Catastrophic injury\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Personal injury claims in Georgia\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Georgia statute of limitations for personal injury (O.C.G.A. \u00a7 9-3-33)\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}], \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Slam Dunk Attorney\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/\"}, \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"Audience\", \"audienceType\": \"Adults in Georgia and family members acting for them after a serious accident injury\"}, \"headline\": \"What to Do After a Catastrophic Injury Accident in Georgia\", \"keywords\": [\"what to do after a catastrophic injury accident georgia\", \"catastrophic injury checklist georgia\", \"steps after catastrophic injury accident georgia\", \"what to do after car accident georgia catastrophic injury\", \"what to do after truck accident georgia\", \"what to do after rideshare accident georgia\", \"georgia personal injury statute of limitations\", \"traumatic brain injury accident georgia what to do\", \"spinal cord injury accident georgia steps\"], \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Slam Dunk Attorney\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/\"}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/guides\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Slam Dunk Attorney\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/slamdunkattorney.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"areaServed\": {\"name\": \"Georgia\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, \"inLanguage\": \"en-US\", \"description\": \"Steps for the first days and weeks after a serious, often permanent injury in a Georgia accident: safety, medical care, police reports, evidence, insurance calls, and filing deadlines.\", \"articleSection\": \"Personal Injury Guide\", \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Brian D. 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