A vehicle accident can result in chronic neck or back pain that lasts months or even years. The discomfort may even last for the rest of the person’s lifetime. It can be difficult to put a price tag on this type of ailment, which is why having representation by an Accident Attorney is so important. An insurance company is typically willing to pay for the person’s medical expenses and for time off from work when this is unavoidable or is recommended by a doctor. However, quantifying chronic pain with a monetary value is problematic since discomfort is subjective. Professional medical practitioners be needed for input to support the person’s case.
The individual may not be permanently disabled, at least in the sense of not ever being able to return to full-time employment. This person may go back to work and continue to enjoy a relatively normal life. Nevertheless, there likely will be an ongoing need for over-the-counter pain medication, as well as more days missed from work each year than used to be the case. The person may not be able to do certain recreational activities anymore because of the discomfort.
Before negotiating a settlement with the insurer, the Accident Attorney will need full documentation from the client’s medical practitioners. The documents should include information from diagnostic measures, such as X-rays and CT scans. Opinions from the family doctor as well as from an orthopedist and neurologist can be included.
The doctors may verify whether they believe the injury will cause long-lasting discomfort that will have a negative effect on the patient’s quality of life. The patient may no longer be able to participate in lengthy bike trips or backpacking, for example. Having to give up activities that once were a regular part of life is a hardship that should qualify for financial compensation if a vehicle accident is to blame. An organization such as the Law Office of Carey Thompson knows what insurers should be expected to pay in these types of situations and will negotiate accordingly.
