Ask a PI Lawyer
I injured my back in a car accident and my doctor says I will probably need medical treatment for the rest of my life. How do I know how much money is enough to take care of the medical expenses?
submitted by Chris P.
The Injury Legal Team’s answer:
Good question. But it’s difficult to answer. Unlike a workers compensation case, part of your settlement or award in a personal injury lawsuit does not include future payments by the insurance company for your future medical treatment. Rather, your attorney must have witnesses present testimony as to the cost of your expected care in the future. This amount is considered, and then if proven, included in any settlement or award. That settlement or award is a lump sum that presumably includes this amount.
However, it is a one time settlement/award. You cannot obtain more money later if your care is more than expected. Therefore, it is crucial that your attorneys have your doctors and perhaps, a life care planning expert, present accurate and credible testimony as to your needs for the future.
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