When The Injury After A Car Accident Is Permanent
Posted on: 22 June 2023
The injuries from a car accident are nearly always impactful. However, some injuries are not expected to fully heal, leaving the victims with permanent injuries. When determining compensation for a car accident victim, the presence of permanent injuries can significantly impact the amount owed. Permanent injuries typically refer to long-lasting or irreversible physical or psychological impairments resulting from the accident.
Compensation Is Affected
After a car accident with permanent injuries, the amount of money paid to the victim will increase substantially over that of other types of injuries. Below are some ways permanent injuries can affect compensation:
- Medical Expenses: Permanent injuries often require ongoing medical treatment, rehabilitation, medication, and therapy. Compensation should account for past, current, and future medical expenses associated with the permanent injury. This can include surgeries, specialist consultations, assistive devices, and home modifications. Victims must know what the future may hold when more medical treatment is needed after the accident settlement is paid.
- Lost Earnings and Reduced Earning Capacity: If a permanent injury prevents the victim from returning to work or reduces their ability to earn income, compensation should reflect the lost wages and potential future earnings. This may involve calculating the loss of current and future income, benefits, and career advancement opportunities.
- Pain and Suffering: Permanent injuries can cause physical pain, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering aims to address the long-term consequences of the injury, including chronic pain, disability, depression, anxiety, loss of enjoyment of life, and the emotional impact on personal relationships.
- Disability and Impairment: Permanent injuries may result in partial or total disability, impairing the victim's ability to perform daily activities or engage in certain occupations or hobbies. Compensation should consider the extent of the disability, its impact on the victim's life, and the need for assistance or accommodation.
- Future Care and Support: Depending on the nature of the permanent injury, the victim may require ongoing care, assistance, or support services. Compensation should consider the cost of future care needs, such as in-home care, nursing services, or personal support workers.
- Loss of Consortium: If the permanent injury affects the victim's ability to maintain intimate relationships, compensation may be awarded for the loss of consortium, which refers to the loss of companionship, affection, and the inability to engage in a normal marital or familial relationship.
To determine an appropriate compensation amount, various factors need to be considered, such as medical documentation, expert opinions, and the guidance of legal professionals specializing in personal injury cases. For more information, contact a car accident lawyer near you.
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