What Is Continuing Care in Personal Injury Law?
Continuing care refers to the long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation required by a victim after sustaining an injury. In personal injury cases, continuing care becomes a critical factor in determining the total compensation needed to cover ongoing and future medical expenses. These treatments are typically necessary for severe injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or chronic conditions caused by an accident.
Examples of Continuing Care
- Physical Therapy: Regular sessions to restore mobility, strength, and function.
- Occupational Therapy: Assistance with relearning daily tasks or adapting to physical limitations.
- Medical Appointments: Follow-ups with specialists for injury management and recovery progress.
- Medications: Long-term use of pain management or condition-specific drugs.
- Assistive Devices: Costs for wheelchairs, prosthetics, or home modifications.
- Psychological Counseling: Support for emotional trauma, anxiety, or depression related to the injury.
Why Is Continuing Care Important in Personal Injury Cases?
Continuing care is essential because it represents a significant and often ongoing financial burden for the injured party. Its importance includes:
- Comprehensive Compensation: Ensures the victim receives funds to cover long-term medical needs.
- Documenting the Impact: Highlights the severity of the injury and its lasting effects on the victim’s life.
- Future Planning: Accounts for medical costs that may not be immediately apparent at the time of the claim.
How Continuing Care Is Calculated in Personal Injury Claims
Attorneys and medical experts work together to estimate the total cost of continuing care by considering:
- The type and frequency of future treatments.
- The expected duration of care, including lifelong support if necessary.
- Inflation and rising healthcare costs over time.
Legal Support for Continuing Care Claims
To recover compensation for continuing care, victims must provide strong evidence, such as medical records, expert testimony, and cost projections. An experienced personal injury attorney can ensure these factors are accurately presented in the claim, securing the financial resources needed for long-term recovery and well-being.
