If you can’t work after a car accident, your options may include seeking compensation from the at-fault party, pursuing PIP benefits, applying for state-run wage replacement programs, or checking for disability benefits.
Many of these options will depend on your eligibility and the circumstances surrounding the collision. A Seattle car accident lawyer from Puget Law Group can review the situation and help you understand the choices available to you.
Our team has over 150 years of combined experience and understands how difficult it can be to lose a valuable source of income while trying to recover from such serious injuries. That’s why we’ve put together this guide explaining the different options and benefits that may be available to you.
Seek Compensation from the At-Fault Party
If you’ve suffered substantial injuries after a car accident, you may be able to file a personal injury claim against the person responsible for the crash. This could be used to cover a range of damages, including medical expenses related to your injuries, any future medical costs, emotional distress, property damage, pain and suffering, and lost wages.
When your injuries are so significant that they prevent you from returning to work after the accident, you may also be able to seek compensation for reduced earning capacity.
While there is no set figure for this, a Seattle personal injury lawyer can investigate the accident and provide an estimate of how much you could be owed in compensation.
Potential At-Fault Parties in a Car Accident
Puget Law Group can also help you identify who the liable parties may be, so you know exactly who to make your injury claim out to. This could include:
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- Another driver who may have been speeding, reckless, distracted, intoxicated, or otherwise negligent in their driving.
- A vehicle manufacturer responsible for faulty vehicle components that may have caused the driver to lose control.
- A mechanic who failed to properly repair or maintain the vehicle.
- An employer or company that may be responsible for the vehicle and employee while they’re on the clock.
- A local government responsible for maintaining safe road conditions.
Pursue PIP Benefits
When you take out an auto insurance policy in Washington state, you should be offered personal injury protection (PIP) as optional coverage. PIP can be used to cover:
- Lost income: Up to $200 a week, with a maximum of $10,000 in total, if you are disabled and unable to work due to your injuries. Can last for up to one year, with additional coverage available.
- Medical costs and hospital bills: Up to $10,000 for each person injured in the accident, with additional coverage of up to $35,000 available.
- Lost services: Up to $200 a week, with a maximum of $5,000 to cover non-family members for services you can’t perform because of your injuries, such as household chores. Additional coverage may increase this amount.
People covered by PIP include the named policyholder, certain family members, and non-related passengers or pedestrians. Speak to your insurance company to find out if you’re covered by PIP and how it might help to support you after a car accident.
Apply for Medical Leave
Another option you have if you can’t work after a car accident is to apply for Washington Paid Family & Medical Leave (PFML). This state benefit is there to help anyone who has a serious health condition or injury that prevents them from working. Depending on your circumstances, PFML may also provide job protection while you take qualifying medical leave.
You can apply using their online form, and they even have a simple eligibility quiz to help determine if this is the right option for your situation. Puget Law Group will help you understand how PFML may work alongside your personal injury claim and other benefits.
Check for Disability Benefits
If your car accident led to short-term or long-term disability, you may have the option to apply for disability benefits. This could be possible through private disability insurance or a federal government program, such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), if your injuries stop you from working for 12 months or longer.
Common Car Accident Injuries That May Impact Your Ability to Work
There are a wealth of injuries that can make it impossible for you to return to work. Some of the most common life-changing injuries after a car crash include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord damage
- Amputations
- Broken bones
- Nerve damage
- Neck and back injuries
- Severe burns
- Internal organ damages
Many of these injuries are so severe that they can lead to temporary or permanent disability, which can have a massive impact on your employment opportunities. If this happens, Puget Law Group can explain your legal options and help you pursue the right avenue for financial recovery.
Understand Your Options if You Can’t Work After a Car Accident With Help From Puget Law Group
To better understand what your options are if you can’t work after a car accident, speak to one of our Seattle car accident attorneys. We offer free consultations and will take the time to fully understand your side of the story as you search for the right solution.
Should you choose to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim, our team will thoroughly investigate the evidence, identify liable parties, calculate your damages, and negotiate with insurers to seek the fairest settlement possible.
Book a free consultation with Puget Law Group to discuss your case in detail. We’re available 24/7, and our team is ready to answer your questions.
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