Car accidents can have severe and lasting effects on your health, finances, and quality of life. While the immediate aftermath of a crash may seem manageable, it’s essential to recognize that injuries sustained in an accident can cause long-term complications. Whether it’s chronic pain, mobility issues, or emotional distress, understanding the full scope of these impacts is crucial, especially when filing a car accident claim.
In this blog, we’ll explore the most common long-term consequences of car accident injuries and how working with a personal injury lawyer can help you seek fair compensation.
Common Long-Term Injuries from Car Accidents in Philadelphia
While some car accident injuries heal within weeks or months, others can have lifelong consequences. Below are a few types of injuries that frequently result in long-term effects:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
A traumatic brain injury can occur even in minor accidents when the brain is jolted inside the skull. Symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and cognitive impairment may develop later. In severe cases, TBIs can lead to memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes that impact everyday life.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Damage to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis, loss of sensation, or chronic pain. Even if the injury isn’t immediately obvious, issues with mobility and nerve function can develop over time. Individuals with spinal cord injuries often face lifelong medical treatment and rehabilitation.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries may seem minor at first but can lead to persistent pain and stiffness in the neck, back, or shoulders. This discomfort can affect your ability to perform daily tasks, work, or engage in physical activities for months or even years.
Broken Bones and Fractures
While broken bones typically heal, severe fractures may result in reduced mobility, chronic pain, or the need for future surgeries. For some, the long-term impact includes arthritis or deformity, which can impair the ability to work or perform physical tasks.
Psychological Injuries
Car accidents don’t just cause physical harm. Emotional trauma such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression can significantly affect your mental health. Flashbacks, sleep disturbances, and fear of driving can all be part of the long-term emotional aftermath of an accident.
How Long-Term Injuries Affect Your Car Accident Claim in PA
When filing a car accident claim, it’s important to account for not only immediate medical bills but also the long-term financial burden caused by your injuries. Here’s how long-term injuries influence your claim:
Medical Expenses
Ongoing medical treatment, such as physical therapy, surgeries, or consultations with specialists, can be costly. Your car accident claim should include compensation for future medical bills, medications, and rehabilitation.
Lost Wages and Earning Capacity
If your injuries prevent you from working for an extended period or permanently affect your ability to earn a living, you have the right to seek compensation for lost wages. In some cases, this includes lost earning capacity if you are unable to return to your previous job or work at full capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Long-term physical pain and emotional suffering can significantly reduce your quality of life. Compensation for pain and suffering may be included in your car accident claim to address these non-economic damages.
Future Care Needs
Some injuries require ongoing care, such as assistance with daily living activities or home modifications. Compensation for these expenses should be factored into your car accident claim, ensuring you can maintain a reasonable quality of life.
Why You Need a Car Accident Lawyer for Long-Term Injuries
When dealing with long-term injuries, working with a car accident lawyer is crucial to ensure your rights are protected. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal complexities and fight for the compensation you deserve. Here are some key reasons to hire a lawyer for your claim:
Accurate Valuation of Your Claim
One of the most challenging aspects of a car accident claim involving long-term injuries is calculating the total value of your damages. Insurance companies often offer settlements that don’t cover the full extent of future medical costs or lost wages. A car accident lawyer can help you evaluate your long-term needs and ensure your claim reflects the true value of your losses.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim, especially when future medical treatment and long-term care are involved. An experienced lawyer knows the tactics insurers use and can negotiate on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
Filing a Lawsuit if Necessary
If negotiations with the insurance company fail, a car accident lawyer can file a lawsuit and represent you in court. They will gather evidence, consult medical experts, and advocate for your right to compensation, ensuring that your case is strong and compelling.
Preventing Costly Mistakes
Filing a car accident claim can be complicated, especially when long-term injuries are involved. Making mistakes, such as missing filing deadlines or accepting a low settlement, can cost you valuable compensation. A car accident lawyer will guide you through the process, helping you avoid costly errors.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Philly
If you’ve been in a car accident, taking immediate steps to protect your health and legal rights is essential. Here’s what to do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t feel hurt, visit a doctor. Some injuries, like whiplash or brain injuries, may not show symptoms immediately.
- Document Everything: Keep records of all medical visits, treatments, and expenses related to your injury. This documentation will be critical when filing your car accident claim.
- Contact a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer: If your injuries are severe or if the insurance company offers a low settlement, consult with a car accident lawyer to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Contact the Injury Lawyers at van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim to Protect Your Future After a Car Accident in Philadelphia
Car accidents can leave you facing long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges. To ensure you receive fair compensation, it’s essential to understand the full impact of your injuries and take the right steps when filing a car accident claim. Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer can make all the difference in securing the compensation you need to move forward with your life.
Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn, Levin & Lindheim today for a free consultation. Call us directly at 215-486-0123 or use our online contact form to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys. We are ready to help you get the compensation you deserve after a car crash in Philadelphia.
Disclaimer: The information provided is not legal advice and does not establish an attorney-client relationship.