Car accidents and car accident injuries can vary significantly depending on the circumstances of the accident. Regardless of the type, however, injuries caused by an accident can lead to long-term medical costs that accident victims are oftentimes unprepared for, leaving them to pay thousands of dollars in medical bills long after their settlement has been accepted.

To ensure you receive a fair settlement for your auto accident, you must first understand the long-term potential costs. While you may have extensive medical bills right now, realize that without a proper settlement, you may be forced to pay those medical costs out-of-pocket in the future if you accept a low settlement today.

Infographic: Long-Term Medical Costs of an Auto Accident

Long-Term Costs Associated with Auto Accidents

Even seemingly minor injuries can result in long-term medical costs. If you have been injured in an auto accident, you should work closely with an attorney and your physician to determine which medical costs you may encounter in the future. Just some of the future costs for your injuries can include:

Surgical Costs

Some injuries require multiple surgeries to fully recover, including plastic surgery for severe facial lacerations. These procedures cost thousands of dollars and may not be covered by regular health insurance, leaving the victim to pay for them out of pocket. This is one of many reasons auto accident victims decide to hire an auto accident lawyer.

Prescription Costs

Prescription medications—whether pain relievers or antibiotics—can cost hundreds of dollars without insurance coverage. More severe injuries may require long-term medication therapy, especially if the accident victim suffers from chronic pain.

Psychological Costs

Auto accidents are undoubtedly one of the most emotional, traumatic experiences a person will go through. In some cases, an auto accident victim may develop a phobia of driving or even suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. The costs of psychological care and therapy can extend well into the thousands. A Florida auto accident lawyer can help you pursue the monetary compensation you deserve to help cover the psychological costs of your injuries.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

More serious injuries may require rehabilitative therapy in order for the accident victim to return to work or even function in their day-to-day lives. Not only will this result in long-term lost wages, but the cost of rehabilitative therapy can add up quickly as well.

Brain Injury Costs

Some accident victims suffer from brain injuries, including concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). After any brain injury, a person may spend the rest of their life in counseling or rehabilitative therapy, and may have to endure multiple surgeries.

Medical Equipment Costs

Some victims may have to purchase medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, braces, and in-home respirators. Medical equipment can cost thousands of dollars and the costs to upgrade, maintain, or replace even a single item will leave victims with unexpected long-term expenses.

Do Not Let Long-Term Costs Affect Your Financial Stability 

If you were injured in a car accident, meet with an experienced Daytona Beach personal injury attorney to assess your case. An attorney at Vasilaros Wagner can help you calculate your past and future expenses to ensure you receive a fair settlement for your injury case. Call us at 386-777-7777 to schedule a no obligation consultation, or complete an online contact form and an attorney will be in touch with you shortly.