Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. Memphis Personal Injury Attorneys | Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. 2026-07-08T13:24:53Z https://www.gmlblaw.com/feed/atom/ WordPress /wp-content/uploads/sites/1502218/2020/02/apple-touch-icon-75x75.png On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[What counts as catastrophic injuries in medical malpractice?]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48947 2026-07-08T13:24:53Z 2026-07-02T15:07:28Z Can you always trust health care? A catastrophic injury results in devastating damage to a person's physical and cognitive abilities. These injuries go beyond personal injury claims. The most frequent severe medical malpractice injuries include:
  • Traumatic brain injury: This could occur when surgical errors or failure to monitor oxygen levels leads to permanent cognitive disability.
  • Severe burns: These can result from the malfunction of medical equipment, chemical exposure or exposure to high-level radiation.
  • Spinal cord injury: Botched surgical procedures or delayed diagnosis of an infection could cause partial or total paralysis.
  • Amputation: An unnecessary loss of a limb can result from surgical mistakes, misdiagnosed infection or poorly managed circulation issues.
  • Loss of sight or hearing: Sensory loss can happen due to improper use of anesthesia, surgical mistakes or incorrect dosage of medications.
Because these injuries often require long-term medical care and rehabilitation, documenting their impact becomes an important part of a medical malpractice claim. The extent of a catastrophic injury might become a point of dispute during a claim. Therefore, making thorough medical documentation is extremely important.

Redefine your way moving forward

Catastrophic injuries often take a toll on a person’s major physical, emotional and financial life. It is crucial to provide victims with the long-term care, dignity and support they deserve for the rest of their lives. If you or your loved ones are facing the aftermath of such a difficult situation, seeking guidance from an experienced legal professional could help you fight for your rights and understand the legal options moving forward.]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[How can families track ICU care after a maritime injury?]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48946 2026-06-24T12:40:45Z 2026-06-24T12:40:45Z Jones Act or the Longshore and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act, depending on your loved one’s job and where the accident happened.

What should you write down about ICU care?

You do not have to record everything like a medical professional. Focus on the information the family receives. In a notebook or phone file, try to track:
  • The date and time of major updates
  • The names and roles of doctors, nurses or case managers who explain important information
  • New diagnoses, surgeries, tests or treatment plans
  • Major medication changes the staff discusses with you
  • Changes in consciousness, movement, breathing, speech or pain
  • The questions your family asks and the answers you receive
These real-time notes create a clear timeline that can help show how severely your loved one was hurt.

What records should your family save?

Catastrophic injuries often bring costs beyond the hospital bill. Save receipts for travel, parking, lodging, medical equipment, home changes and documentation of missed work. Keep insurance letters, bills, discharge papers and therapy or recovery instructions. Tennessee law limits noneconomic damages, such as pain and suffering, in standard personal injury cases. However, if an accident falls under federal maritime jurisdiction, federal law completely preempts state law, meaning Tennessee's damage caps do not apply. If the injury involved a boating accident, the vessel operator may also need to report it to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, depending on the injury and damage.

Protecting details while you focus on your loved one’s recovery

No journal can take away the stress of an ICU stay. Still, careful notes can help your family stay organized and protect your loved one’s future needs. Because maritime injury claims can involve different rules than a standard injury case, speaking with a lawyer can help clarify what records to save and what steps may come next.]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[Are there doctors on commercial ships?]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48943 2026-06-18T16:12:11Z 2026-06-18T16:12:11Z For those who work at sea, there are inherent dangers. They may be dealing with serious injuries or illnesses. Injuries can range from everything from burns to broken bones to hypothermia after falling overboard. In situations where there are civilian passengers involved, such as on a cruise ship, there may be a doctor assigned to the ship. This doctor will have limited resources compared to those that would be found in a hospital, but they can provide emergency care and first aid. But what about on other types of commercial ships, such as merchant vessels? If someone working on the ship suffers an injury, is there a doctor to offer treatment?

Training for nautical officers

Generally speaking, no, there will not be a dedicated doctor on the ship. Instead, nautical officers receive medical training so that they can address emergencies. In some cases, these officers are required to go through a medical refresher course. This gives them 40 hours of training, and they need to do it every five years. While this is better than nothing, it is also clear that this is not a replacement for being treated by a professional doctor. The nautical officer can render first aid, but someone who is injured in a remote location may still need to be transported to a hospital to receive a substantially higher level of care. This means that injuries on ships are often very serious, and delays in medical care can cause symptoms to grow worse. Those who have been injured while working in a maritime setting must know exactly what legal options they have.  ]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[Semi-trucks have long stopping distances]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48942 2026-06-06T20:56:36Z 2026-06-06T20:56:36Z A semi-truck has a much longer stopping distance than a smaller vehicle. If someone is in a small passenger car, like a sedan, they can usually bring the vehicle to a halt in around 300 feet. But a semi-truck driver who hits the brakes at the exact same moment would generally need more like 525 feet to stop their vehicle. Much of this is just due to the weight of a semi-truck. It could weigh up to 80,000 pounds. That is a significant amount of mass to bring to a halt, so even a vehicle with well-maintained braking systems just needs longer to slow down.

Truck driver safety laws

The need for a greater stopping distance also helps to explain some of the other driver safety laws enacted by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration. For example, the FMCSA says that drivers typically are not allowed to use handheld mobile devices while they are operating their vehicles. They may be able to use hands-free devices, which often require them to push just a single button and mean that they do not have to hold the phone in their hand while talking. But a truck driver should never be manually using their cellphone. After all, a distracted truck driver may have a delayed reaction time when trying to hit the brakes and stop their vehicle. Because they need a greater amount of space to do so, this delay could lead to a catastrophic accident where the truck driver rear-ends another vehicle ahead of them.

Seeking financial compensation

Have you been injured in an accident caused by a negligent tractor-trailer driver? If so, you may be able to seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and much more.  ]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[Injuries that can change a person’s life forever]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48940 2026-05-22T14:39:59Z 2026-05-22T14:39:59Z A serious injury can affect nearly every part of a person’s life in an instant. What begins as a single accident can lead to years of physical pain, emotional stress and major life adjustments for both the injured person and their loved ones. Some injuries can heal with time, while others may permanently change the way someone works, communicates or lives independently. The financial burden alone can become overwhelming as medical care, rehabilitation and long-term support continue far beyond the initial accident.

The lasting impact of catastrophic injuries

Catastrophic injuries are defined as any injury that permanently prevents an individual from performing any gainful work; these often involve permanent or life-altering conditions. Paralysis, amputations and traumatic brain injuries can affect mobility, speech and a person’s ability to return to daily routines. In many cases, these injuries require ongoing medical treatment, physical therapy, assistive equipment and home modifications. Traumatic brain injuries can be especially difficult because the effects are not always immediately visible. A person may struggle with concentration, seizures or personality changes that impact relationships and employment. Families are often forced to adapt to a completely different reality while trying to manage medical appointments, financial concerns and emotional exhaustion at the same time. Severe burns and amputations can also create lifelong physical and emotional challenges. Extensive surgeries, rehabilitation and chronic pain are common, while emotional trauma and changes in self-image may continue long after the visible wounds begin to heal. Many individuals face uncertainty about their future, especially when the injury limits their ability to work or maintain independence. When an injury changes the course of someone’s life, having reliable legal guidance can make a meaningful difference. An experienced legal professional who understands the impact of catastrophic injuries can help families pursue the support and resources they may need moving forward.]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[Can you file a Jones Act claim if you have partial fault?]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48938 2026-05-09T02:53:58Z 2026-05-09T02:53:58Z The Jones Act in a nutshell The Jones Act is a federal law that allows injured maritime workers to bring a negligence claim against their employer if unsafe working conditions, poor training, faulty equipment or crew negligence contributed to their injury. Injured workers can recover damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity and compensation for pain and suffering.

Partial fault doesn’t end a Jones Act claim

You can still pursue compensation as long as your employer’s negligence played even a partial role in your injury. The Jones Act uses a system called comparative negligence. That means fault can be divided. If you are found partly responsible, your compensation may be reduced, but not entirely eliminated.

Protecting your rights as an injured maritime worker

It is common for maritime employers to shift attention toward alleged mistakes made by the injured worker or to claim that safety rules were not followed. These arguments are often used to reduce the employer’s share of responsibility by increasing the worker’s perceived level of fault. The goal is typically not to eliminate liability altogether, but to minimize the amount of compensation the employer may have to pay. This underscores the importance of experienced legal guidance when navigating a Jones Act claim. Such cases are rarely straightforward, and employers and insurers are often prepared to defend them aggressively. Without sound legal representation, you may be pressured into accepting a resolution that doesn’t fully account for the extent of your losses or the true circumstances of the accident.  ]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[How FELA compensation differs from workers’ compensation]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48937 2026-04-30T19:06:01Z 2026-04-30T19:06:01Z FELA is fault-based Workers’ compensation works on a simple premise: you get hurt on the job, you get benefits. It doesn’t matter who caused the injury. FELA is different. To recover under FELA, you have to prove that your employer’s negligence contributed to your injury, wholly or partially. You may not be entitled to compensation if you were solely at fault for your injuries.

The damage gap can be significant

While you must prove fault with a FELA claim, there’s no cap on the compensation you can recover. You may be entitled to your full lost wages, future earning capacity, medical expenses and damages for your pain and suffering. A railroad worker who suffers a permanent, career-ending injury can potentially recover far more through a successful FELA claim than through workers' compensation, especially when you factor in non-economic damages.

You have to fight for it

FELA compensation isn’t automatic after an injury. Railroads are experienced defendants. They even have legal teams whose entire job is to minimize what they pay injured workers. It’s all about protecting their bottom line. If you were injured working on a railroad in Tennessee, you may have rights that many workers don’t realize. Seeking prompt legal guidance can help protect evidence, meet deadlines and strengthen your ability to recover a fair settlement.]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[What to do immediately after a maritime accident in Tennessee]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48936 2026-04-23T14:31:47Z 2026-04-23T14:31:47Z Prioritize safety and report the incident After an accident, it is essential to prioritize the safety of all passengers and crew members when possible. Try to check for injuries and consider calling 911 if anyone needs medical attention. Tennessee law requires you to provide reasonable assistance to anyone who is injured or in danger, assuming you can do so safely. Try to reach out to the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) without delay after an accident occurs. You may also be required to submit a written report if the incident involves death, disappearance, injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid or property damage exceeding $2,000. You must notify authorities of any fatal accidents or disappearances as soon as possible. Ensure to file a formal written report within 48 hours. You must file reports for property damage exceeding $2,000 within 10 days.

Document the scene thoroughly

While you are at the scene, try to gather as much information as you reasonably can. If possible, take photographs of the vessels involved, visible damage, injuries and the surrounding area. It may also be helpful to collect contact information from witnesses. Note the weather, water conditions, time of day and other key details.

Seek medical care

Even if you do not feel any different, consider pursuing a medical evaluation. The symptoms of concussions or whiplash may not appear right away. They may take hours or days to manifest, but can become serious if left untreated. A prompt medical examination may also provide you with documentation linking any injuries directly to the accident. This can be valuable for insurance purposes and future reference.

Prompt action is critical

By learning how to respond after a maritime accident, you can act quickly and meet Tennessee’s legal requirements. This way, you may protect yourself and others on Tennessee's waterways.]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[What types of injuries qualify under the Jones Act]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48935 2026-03-19T16:50:07Z 2026-03-25T16:47:01Z Common injuries among vessel crew members Seamen face a variety of risks while at work. Unsafe working conditions or sudden accidents occurring on the vessel can lead to injuries, including:
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Burns
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Organ damage
  • Water-related injuries
  • Bone fractures
  • Repetitive stress injuries
  • Amputations and disfigurements
While some of these can be minor, many may require long-term medical care. A medical diagnosis is crucial to determine if your condition stems from an accident or employer negligence.

Eligibility for the Jones Act

Before initiating a case under the Jones Act, it is important to understand if you fit the qualifications. First, you must spend at least 30% of your time working on a vessel in navigation. The ship must be floating on water, able to operate by itself or in navigable waters suitable for local and foreign trade. Moreover, your job must contribute to the boat’s function or mission. Meeting these requirements allows you to claim that your injuries were caused by a negligent party at work. Supporting your case with crucial evidence is also necessary to fully qualify under the Jones Act. Keeping relevant medical documentation and seeking legal advice can help you build a strong case.

Regaining stability after disaster

Your job in the maritime industry may be dangerous, but that does not mean that you should work in unsafe conditions. Filing a personal injury claim under the Jones Act can be a helpful path to healing. Doing so is more than just about recouping what you lost in the incident; it is about standing up for your rights as a maritime worker.]]> On Behalf of Godwin, Morris, Laurenzi & Bloomfield, P.C. <![CDATA[3 common injuries in the railroad industry]]> https://www.gmlblaw.com/?p=48931 2026-03-10T18:18:27Z 2026-03-10T18:15:28Z Crush injuries When a worker’s arm or leg gets caught in moving equipment, they may suffer serious trauma that causes bone and tissue damage or loss of limb function. These safety hazards often arise from faulty equipment, derailments and low-visibility yard spaces.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs)

Musculoskeletal disorders are injuries to the muscles, joints, bones and nerves that often develop from repetitive motions of lifting, bending or the use of vibrating tools. Three common forms of MSDs include tendonitis, stress fractures and trigger finger.

Cancer from chemical exposure

Workers who do track maintenance are often in proximity to toxic substances like diesel exhaust and lead. When they inhale or ingest particles from these chemicals, their health is likely compromised. Prolonged exposure to harmful toxins can increase their risk of developing lung cancer, bladder cancer or leukemia.

The Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA) offers protection

Under FELA, railroad workers can sue their employers for any injuries or illnesses that they have sustained in the workplace. However, unlike the no-fault workers’ compensation system, a FELA claim requires proving employer fault or negligence. By filing a claim within the three-year statute of limitations, employees can seek compensation for their medical costs, lost wages, mental anguish and pain and suffering. This action not only helps ease their emotional burden but also protects their right to seek the maximum amount that they would need to move forward with their lives.]]>