What Happens When a Car Accident Causes a Permanent Disability?

Some car accidents go well beyond broken bones and soft tissue injuries. They cause permanent disabilities and impairments that forever change the victim’s life. When this occurs, securing fair compensation is key to help provide for the victim’s future needs. An experienced OKC car accident lawyer from Oklahoma Injury Law Firm can guide you through the legal process of seeking this compensation and holding the at-fault parties accountable for your injuries.

Common Types of Permanent Disabilities in Car Accidents

Car accidents are a leading cause of permanent disability and fatalities each year. They can involve high speeds, crushing metal, explosions, and physical impacts that well exceed the ability of the human body to withstand them.

Common types of permanent disabilities in car accidents include the following:

• Traumatic brain injuries, which can result in loss of mobility, bowel and bladder control, and cognitive functioning
• Spinal cord injuries, including partial or complete paralysis
• Amputation or crush injuries
• Severe internal organ damage
• Severe burns 
• Injuries that cause significant scarring or disfigurement

Permanent disabilities include any injury that leads to the victim being unable to perform activities of daily living or work duties they completed before the accident.

Legal Options for Pursuing Compensation After Suffering a Permanent Disability or Impairment

Permanent disabilities can result in the need for expensive medical care. It can also preclude the victim from ever working again. These new realities can lead to significant financial losses.

You may have various options for dealing with the financial fallout an accident caused. If you were working at the time of the accident, you could be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Permanent disabilities may also make you eligible for Social Security Disability benefits.

You could also pursue compensation by filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver. If their insurance coverage is insufficient to cover your damages, you can file a claim with your underinsured motorist insurance. You might also consider filing a lawsuit against the at-fault driver to secure compensation to cover your long-term needs.

What Damages Can I Recover in a Personal Injury Claim or Lawsuit?

Accident victims may be able to secure compensation for the following damages with a successful personal injury claim:

• Medical bills for immediate medical treatment
• Payment for ongoing medical care
• In-home or nursing care
• Future medical expenses
• Lost wages for immediate forms of lost income
• Lost earning capacity for future lost income
• Property damage and modifications to your home and vehicle to accommodate your disability
• Physical and emotional pain and suffering
• Psychological harm and trauma
• Reduced quality of life
• Loss of consortium

An experienced car accident attorney from our law firm can investigate your case, handle communication with the insurance company, and fight for meaningful compensation. We can also work with medical experts, economic experts, and life care planners who can help identify your long-term needs.

Call Oklahoma Injury Law Today for a Free Consultation

When you’re already dealing with so much, you need a skilled legal advocate on your side that Oklahoma Injury Law can provide. Contact us or call us at (405) 310-8800 to schedule a free case review.