Every personal injury victim has unique needs after an accident. Recovery can take many forms. The needs of people who become disabled can accumulate quickly. Recovery for life-altering injuries often affects the entire family and everything about their lifestyle. The expenses will often include much more than some vehicle damage and a few appointments with a doctor.

The compensation types listed below are not only for people with disabling injuries. Personal injury laws allow people to include an array of related expenses for any injury because of the negligence of others. However, anyone who will have lifelong needs because of an accident must take the time to consider how the costs will add up over the remaining decades of their life.

Estimate Future Medical Care

Disabilities can lead to lifelong medical treatments and potential future complications. Victims of accidents need to talk openly with their doctor about their outlook and what they need to prepare for as they age. Discussions should take place with physical therapists and other specialists to make certain the compensation requested will meet all expected needs.

A disability will often mean people must buy medical equipment like a wheelchair, crutches, or a prosthesis. The amount of compensation requested to cover medical equipment should also factor in any repairs, maintenance, and future replacements of these items.

Consider All Social Losses

Loss of enjoyment considerations, like pain and suffering, do not have a specific price tag attached but can still become a part of the compensation. A severe injury can take away from people the ability to live their life in a way that makes them happy. A disabling injury can prevent people from pursuing their hobbies, playing sports, or traveling.

Accident victims should create a list of things they took part in before their accident but cannot do now. Add to the list any special occasions already missed because of time in a hospital for recovery. Include occasions like a graduation, a family wedding, or any other one-time events.

Get Costs for Adaptions

The cost of the adjustments to vehicles and homes to make them accessible can add up quickly. A full house renovation that includes a bathroom and kitchen may cost a family as much as $40,000 to complete. Families with smaller homes or houses with multiple levels may need to move to make accessibility possible.

Converting a family van so it is wheelchair accessible could cost up to $30,000. Vehicles do not last forever, so families may need to convert multiple vehicles. Lower-priced options exist, and different disabilities will require specific adaptions. Research carefully to get realistic prices based on personal needs.

Include Any Career Limitations

Injuries that affect memory, motor skills, and strength can end some careers or put limits on how far people can advance in their industry. Discuss with your lawyer any effect the injuries may have on future promotions and income potential. Also, include any household income already lost because of the accident.

Add Personal Counseling Costs

Traumatic events leave physical scars and psychological ones. Compensation should include counseling to help the victim learn to adapt to their new lifestyle. Accident victims may need to meet with a psychologist first to have success in court or during a settlement. The therapist would assess the need for counseling and how it relates to the accident and injury.

Everything can change when an injury becomes a permanent complication. Accident victims need to make certain they seek a compensation amount that equals their expected expenses. At Owen Law Firm, we can help. Contact Joe Owen to schedule a consultation to discuss your case and your needs.