Severe injuries related to a car accident are actually one of the most common causes of limited functional capacity in working individuals. Therefore, if you are involved in a severe car accident that leaves you with major, long-term injuries, you may qualify for Social Security Disability (SSD) payments to help you support yourself when you are unable to work. Even though certain injuries can obviously limit your ability to stay employed, you may still have some issues when you apply for your benefits.
Hiring a Social Security lawyer to help you through the process of applying for your benefits can be a good financial move.
1. What types of injuries are most likely to mean you can get SSD?
Several traumatic injuries can interfere with your ability to stay gainfully employed. However, a few types of injuries would be more likely to help you win your claim with the Social Security Administration. Some of those injuries include:
- Injuries that affect your mobility for the long-term (e.g. paralyzation, loss of limbs, etc.)
- Injuries that affect your cognitive function (e.g. traumatic brain injuries)
- Injuries that cause severe changes in your physical capacity (e.g. damage to your organs limits your work capacity)
When you initially meet with a Social Security lawyer to discuss your injuries, the lawyer will look at your specific injuries and let you know the probability of getting approved.
2. How long will the process take to get SSD after a car accident?
Many factors can affect how long it takes to get through your claim. Getting denied is quite common. At that point, the lawyer will help you file an appeal with the Social Security Administration, and you will likely be scheduled for a hearing to cover the details of your claim before an administrative law judge. The entire process can take several months to work through, especially if you get denied initially.
3. Can you get SSD after a car accident if you will get better eventually?
SSD is not considered a short-term solution for people with limited working capacity. Therefore, if your injuries are not considered chronic or life-altering, getting approved is highly unlikely. Nevertheless, discussing the specifics of your situation with a Social Security lawyer is always recommended. What seems like an injury that will eventually get better can still be an injury that leaves you with permanent limitations to be considered.
For more help with your case, contact a social security lawyer.
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