A fender-bender might cause a bruise, laceration, or bump on the head, but vehicle collisions are often catastrophic. In such cases, victims will experience severe, devastating trauma. Here are some specific long-term effects:
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Traumatic brain injury affects how the brain works, causing significant cognitive damage and mental disorders. Even a single blow to the head can have long-lasting consequences.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries often lead to paralysis, including paraplegia and quadriplegia. These life-altering injuries drastically impact mobility and independence.
Limb Amputation
When a victim suffers the amputation of limbs or extremities, the resulting disability is permanent. Adjusting to life without a limb requires significant physical and emotional adaptation.
Losses for Victims of Long-Term Complications
The immediate losses resulting from these long-term injuries include emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, and other intense medical treatments. However, the consequences of the car accident continue to be felt for years. Here are some additional losses victims may experience:
Additional Surgeries
Long-term injuries often necessitate multiple surgeries to restore function and alleviate pain. These procedures can add to the financial and physical burden faced by victims.
Long-Term Care and Rehabilitation
Many victims require long periods of at-home care with skilled nursing personnel. In cases where at-home care is not sufficient, placement in assisted living facilities may be necessary. The costs associated with ongoing care and rehabilitation can be substantial.
Assistive Devices and Home Modifications
To adapt to their new circumstances, victims may require wheelchairs, crutches, hospital beds, and other assistive devices. Additionally, modifying homes and vehicles to accommodate their medical needs becomes essential but costly.
Impacts on Quality of Life
Beyond the tangible losses, victims of long-term injuries also endure intangible losses that significantly impact their quality of life. The emotional trauma and diminished enjoyment of activities they once loved can be profound.
Additional Losses
Car accidents can bring forth additional long-term consequences that may not be immediately apparent. These include:
Mounting Medical Costs
- For the rest of the victim’s life, medical costs continue to accumulate. The injuries sustained in the accident may also leave them vulnerable to other medical conditions that further impact their well-being.
Impact on Families
- Car accidents can have a ripple effect on entire families. Spouses or parents often need to step into the role of full-time caregivers, leading to sacrifices in income and employment opportunities. The financial strain and emotional toll on the family unit can be immense.
Consult with a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer About Options
If you have been hurt in an auto crash, it is crucial to understand your rights and remedies under Pennsylvania law. Even for the long-term effects, you may be eligible to seek compensation. Contact the Quinn Law Group for a free case evaluation. Our experienced car accident injury attorneys can provide guidance based on your unique situation and help you navigate the legal process to pursue the compensation you deserve.
