common log term injuriesWhen filing a personal injury claim, many people are curious to know the kind of compensation they will receive for their injuries. Many injuries caused by car accidents can leave permanent or long lasting effects; also known as residual injuries.

If you have residual injuries then your damages award will increase significantly. Below are some common types of long term injuries and how they will impact the value of your case.

Common Types of Long Term Injuries

Disfigurement and Scarring

You might get a scar from an injury or as a result of a medical procedure used to treat your injury. If the scarring is very prominent or extensive, it can increase the value of your claim. Scarring can sometimes affect the mobility of certain parts of your body. For instance, if the scarring occurs at a joint such as your elbow it might limit the mobility of your hand.

If your scars are located on a part of your body that are normally covered by clothes, then the value of your claim may not be as much as if the scar were to be on a par of your body that is visible such as your face.

Certain prejudices will, however, affect your claim even if your scar is visible. For example, a female model that gets a scar on her face is more likely to receive a much higher amount of compensation compared to a woman who does not work in the fashion industry. Similarly, a young single woman will receive a much higher compensation compared to a middle aged married woman. And a man is likely to receive less compensation than a woman who suffers scars on her face.

With that being said, you still need to demonstrate to the insurance company how much it would cost to remove or repair the scar by obtaining a full report from a medical expert. In this case a plastic surgeon would be in a better position to explain the procedure needed and how much it would cost.

Joint or Back Injuries

If you suffer an injury to your back or your joint, you will definitely suffer some permanent effect even if it is minor. Below are some injuries you are likely to suffer:

Back Injuries

Most people suffer from a bulging or a herniated disk after a car accident. These are the disks that provide cushioning and support between your spinal vertebrae and they can push against a nerve or slip out of place. If the injury does not get treated, it could result in some long term consequences.

Neck Injuries

Whiplash is the most common car accident injury that most people suffer from when they’re involved in a car accident. The injury occurs when a fast moving car suddenly stops and your neck snaps back and forth. In some cases you might not feel the pain immediately and in other instances you feel the pain in your neck instantly. Either way, it’s important that you get a full analysis from a medical professional.

Head Injuries

In many cases many people are not aware that they have a head injury. The two most common types of head injuries are concussions and traumatic brain injuries.  Both of these injuries require immediate treatment to prevent death or even long term consequences.

Lower Extremity Injuries

If your car was involved in a front end collision, you might have suffered injuries in your lower extremities such as the ankles, knees, thighs and hips. The severity of your injuries will determine how much you will receive in compensation.

Document Your Records

If you have a residual injury, you should make sure it is documented in your medical records. The same applies if your doctor sees the possibility that your injuries will have a residual effect.

Talk to your doctor and ask questions about your injuries. For instance, you can ask them if your injuries could result in degenerative problems. If they answer yes then you can ask them to include that information in your medical records. This will go a long way to support your personal injury claim.

Speak with a Car Accident Attorney in Plymouth, MA

At Kevin P Landry Offices, we have helped many car accident victims get compensation for their personal injury claims. We know how difficult it can be to move on after a car accident. The hassle of negotiating with insurance adjusters, recovering from your injuries and also coming to terms with the fact that your life might never be the same again due to your residual injuries. We can help you and deal with the insurance adjusters while you concentrate on getting better. Call us today at 508-746-2700 to schedule your free initial consultation.