The True Cost Of Car Accident Injuries
When headed to and from work or out running errands, the last thing you expect is to be involved in a car accident. In the sudden shock immediately after a crash or collision, drivers often have the tendency to downplay the accident and the extent of their personal injuries. Unfortunately, your actions can have an immediate impact on your rights to compensation, while the injuries you suffer can have long ranging effects on your health and financial security. The following exposes the true cost of car accident injuries, and the steps you can take to help ensure you get what you are entitled to in an accident claim.
Car Accident Injury Costs
Even a fender bender or parking lot collision can result in injuries that require a doctor’s care. They can present ongoing problems in the months and years to come. In a more severe accident, you could face ongoing hospitalization, medical treatment, and physical therapy, while being unable to work or even take care of yourself. Car accident injuries that can result in permanent disabilities include:
Soft tissue injuries, such as muscle strains, sprains, and tears
Back and neck injuries, such as slipped discs and fractured vertebrae
Abdominal injuries, which can cause damage to internal organs
Head injuries, which can result in concussion and traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), property damages, medical care, and lost wages as the result of car accidents can range from $12,000 for a minor collision to over one million dollars in a severe crash.
Protecting Yourself When A Car Accident Occurs
In the aftermath of a car accident, you need to take the appropriate precautions to protect yourself. This includes reporting it to law enforcement, getting contact information from the other driver and any witnesses at the scene, taking pictures of the damage to your vehicle, and making sure you get medical care for your injuries.
See a doctor immediately, regardless of whether or not you think you are injured. In many cases, symptoms of serious conditions can take hours, days, or even weeks to appear. Follow all of your doctor’s instructions regarding diagnostic testing and treatment, and abide by any work or activity restrictions they recommend.
Speak To A Car Accident Attorney
Before accepting a settlement from an insurance company, speak to a car accident injury attorney first. We can help ensure any costs you are likely to incur in the future are covered. In some cases, you may be better off filing a personal injury claim against the at fault driver. Under the South Carolina Code, damages you may be entitled to claim include the following:
Economic damages, which include actual costs, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and the cost to repair or replace your vehicle
Noneconomic damages, meant to compensate you for disabilities and scarring, along with any pain, suffering, mental anguish, or loss of enjoyment in life you suffer due to your accident
Contact the Surasky Law Firm, LLC to request a free consultation to discuss your case with our Aiken car accident attorneys.
