The Hidden Costs of Car Accidents

The Hidden Costs of Car Accidents

The financial expenses related to a car accident can be devastating. From extensive vehicle repairs and sky-high medical bills to time out of work, even a relatively minor crash can significantly disrupt your life. Beyond the obvious expenses are the hidden costs of car accidents, adding unexpected challenges to an already stressful situation.

If you need to file a personal injury claim after a collision in Wisconsin, an experienced car accident lawyer can help evaluate your case and provide a general idea of its potential value. However, every case outcome depends on specific facts and circumstances.

Immediate Financial Costs Beyond Medical Bills

Medical expenses are not the only crash-related costs that can cause financial distress right after a car accident. Whether the wreck leaves you injured, lacking transportation, or both, you may not be able to earn a living, which means no income coming in to balance out the money being spent.

If you suffered serious injuries, you may also need immediate help with child care, shopping, and general housekeeping. The cost for “loss of services” can potentially be recovered in a Wisconsin car accident claim.

Long-Term Financial Impacts

One of the hidden costs of accidents that can be hardest to predict is the loss of income victims may experience due to their injuries. A severe injury may impact your ability to work in the future, either permanently or by limiting you from working at the same capacity you could before the crash. Insurance companies fight to avoid paying for future losses because these costs are not easily calculated. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer can work with economists, financial planners, and other experts when requesting compensation for anticipated expenses.

Psychological and Emotional Costs

Some car accident victims struggle emotionally as they recover from a crash. They may need mental health treatment for conditions including:

  • Acute stress reactions
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Grief
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Help is available, but mental health treatment costs money. These costs are compensable but undervalued in insurance claims. A car accident attorney can advocate for compensation that accounts for these expenses.

Practical Life Disruptions

Car accident injuries may stop you in your tracks, but life keeps going. You may need help with daily living tasks like:

  • Feeding yourself
  • Toileting and showering
  • Transportation to work and doctor’s appointments

Addressing these issues may require services such as home health care and aides. Paying for these essential services can be expensive, and they deserve compensation.

Contact a Wisconsin Car Accident Lawyer Today

If you suffered injuries in a car accident caused by someone else’s negligence, the skilled car accident attorneys at LawtonCates can help. We’ve proudly fought for the rights of injured Wisconsin clients since 1958. We’ll stand by your side as you seek justice and the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for your free consultation.

Author: LawtonCates

At LawtonCates, we take fighting for accident victims very seriously. It’s how we’ve always done it for six-plus decades as a reputable South Central Wisconsin law practice. Our lawyers are passionate about helping people get back on their feet because we know their health, livelihood, and future are at stake.