When a person seeks compensation for a personal injury, they’re likely concerned about making up for lost wages and paying their medical expenses. However, a personal injury has far more costs than most consider. We may not realize these non-obvious financial burdens until a case settles, and then it may be too late.
An accident lawyer in Cincinnati assisting you with your claim will help you recognize the other costs that could affect you immediately after the accident or down the road. We uncover these hidden expenses and discuss why they’re important to consider in your personal injury claim.
Home Modifications to Accommodate Mobility Issues
Severe injuries may result in mobility changes. Accident victims may require accommodations in the home to help them maintain their safety and accessibility to all living spaces. Accommodations include handrails, ramps, mechanical lifts, lighting, and other alterations. Most changes are expensive, and an insurance policy might not cover them, even if they’re necessary.
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
With more severe injuries, complete or partial recovery depends on continued treatment. The costs are typically associated with specialized equipment, provider hours, use of therapy facilities, and other items. Many accident victims need ongoing physical therapy and other treatments for weeks or even months, which only adds to the financial burden on the victim and family.
Emotional and Psychological Impact
Many accident victims consider pain and suffering when seeking compensation. This term refers to the emotional anguish, diminished enjoyment of life, and physical stress from experiencing an injury or negligent act.
Although pain and suffering does involve distress, a person might also experience other psychological effects, such as post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD), that go beyond normal responses to harrowing events. PTSD and other mental health conditions can have profound impacts. Following an incident, a person may need months or even years of counseling, therapy, and other forms of support, all of which have price tags.
Loss of Household Contributions
A severe injury may mean diminished capacity to keep up with housework or care for children and other dependents. The loss of household contribution often requires paying for childcare or hiring a housekeeper. Such expenses can add up and should be included in a personal injury claim.
Transportation and Travel
You incur transportation costs like fuel or public transportation fares when going to the doctor or physical therapist. With decreased mobility, driving may not even be an option, meaning you must rely on taxis or ride-sharing services to get around. These additional costs can be oppressive for people living in rural areas or places with limited transportation.
Legal and Court Costs
Remember that most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, meaning they don’t collect fees unless you win your case. Legal costs, like paying expert witnesses, still add up as your attorney negotiates a settlement or prepares for trial. Also, if you end up testifying at a trial, you’ll likely lose time away from work.
A Personal Injury Lawyer in Cincinnati Can Help Uncover Hidden Costs
There’s a lot to think about when filing a personal injury claim. As you collect your documentation and arrange for medical care, it’s easy to overlook other bills that pop up unexpectedly. A local attorney experienced in car crashes and other accidents is skilled at looking for those hidden expenses.
It’s virtually impossible to calculate the total cost of a personal injury on the surface. The attorneys with Clements, Taylor, Butkovich & Cohen LPA, Co., understand how easy it is to overlook the subtle but essential details. They work hard to take on that burden and let you focus on your recovery. If you have questions about the costs associated with personal injury or want to file a claim, you can call us at 513.721.6500 or get in touch with us online.