If you are involved in a car accident that leads to a spinal cord injury, the costs can be overwhelming. For example, the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation estimates that the average lifetime cost of paraplegia for a 50-year-old is $1,516,052. If the same injury occurs at 25 years old, the lifetime cost increases to $2,310,104.
When facing these financial challenges, you may want to seek compensation from the driver who caused the accident. But what type of compensation do you need? Here are a few areas to consider.
Short-term medical costs
A spinal cord injury often leads to significant medical expenses immediately after the accident. You may need emergency surgery and hospitalization, or you may even be airlifted to a trauma center. You deserve compensation for these immediate medical bills.
Long-term medical costs
A spinal cord injury can also result in long-term expenses. You may need in-home care while recovering, ongoing physical rehabilitation or even lifelong medical assistance. If your injury does not fully heal, you must consider these ongoing costs in addition to your short-term medical bills.
Changes to your earnings
Finally, consider how the injury affects your income. If you miss time at work, you deserve compensation for lost wages. A severe injury may mean you can never return to your previous job, leading to a reduced earning capacity and lost future wages. You may deserve compensation for both the short-term and long-term impact on your financial stability.
Seeking this compensation can be a complex process, so make sure you understand the legal steps you need to take as you do so.