What Happens if a Car Accident Left Me Permanently Disabled?
Every car accident is different, and so is the aftermath. A car accident can range from minor fender-benders to catastrophic collisions, and the injuries suffered can range just as much. There are some accidents that are so severe that it leads to a debilitating injury that could take months or years to heal. Some may never heal. Unfortunately, those who suffer such a devastating injury are permanently disabled.
A disability from the result of an accident can come in three forms: temporary, partial, and permanent. Any three forms can turn your world upside down, but it is the permanent disabilities that drastically change a person’s life, both physically and mentally.
What is a Permanent Disability?
Temporary and partial disabilities are sometimes minor injuries that can prohibit you from working for a certain period. The difference between the two depends on the injury and the person, but likely:
- Temporary disabilities may prevent one to work or perform some tasks, but they should make a completely recovery.
- Partial disabilities may hinder one’s ability to work or partake in certain activities, but generally will be able to return eventually. However, if you have suffered a partial disability, you may never truly recover, but you may recover to the point of returning to work. You may also improve with treatment or rehabilitation.
Permanent disabilities derive from injuries so severe that the injured person will not recover fully and is impaired for the remainder of their life. This disability can be both physical and mental, and, in some cases, it is possible that the person may return to some form of work, although the pain will still exist, or the disability will never heal.
There are many different types of permanent disabilities you can suffer from a car accident, including:
- Paralysis
- Spinal cord trauma
- Nerve damage
- Deafness, blindness, or other sensory loss
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Amputation
- Severe burns
- Psychological trauma
Most days will be spent rehabilitating or receiving treatment, with many visits to different doctors. Some disabilities require using a wheelchair or modifying your vehicle or home to access. Other injuries require an at-home nurse or years of physical or occupational therapy. However, not only does a disability upend your personal life and career, but also your support system and your finances will suffer.
Many people who suffer a permanent disability are the main source of income for their family. Receiving disability payments from the insurance company or from Social Security benefits is likely not enough. Insurance companies may not cover everything, so properly documenting any expense and seeking legal help are the best way to make sure you and your family are covered.
Permanent disabilities are lifelong and will require a different way of life for the injured. It will also be difficult for one to ascertain what amount of money is needed to cover a disabled person’s expenses, because not only will there be many needs that have to be met, but also it could last the rest of the victim’s life. To seek compensation for such a devastating injury, it is best to consult with a skilled and experienced car accident lawyer.
A lawyer can help determine the appropriate amount of compensation for a disabled person, particularly for future expenses. They will be in contact with medical experts and the doctors to ensure the insurance companies provide an adequate amount of coverage for treatment and other expenses.
Washington DC Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Those Severely Injured or Disabled in a Car Accident
Car accidents are one of the main causes of injury and disability. Severe collisions can be fatal or lead to a permanent disability, drastically changing a person’s personal and professional life. If you have been injured in a car accident and are possibly disabled, contact the Washington DC car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King immediately. Our experienced team will help you and your family get the best possible care and compensation you rightfully deserve. Call us at 202-331-1963 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Washington, DC, we work with car accident victims in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, and Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.