Victims of catastrophic injuries, such as those suffered in car accidents, may suffer from long-term disability that may require medical treatment, care and rehabilitation. Catastrophic injuries that prevent the disabled individual from working can create a significant financial burden for the disabled individual and their family.
For a physical injury to qualify as a disability, according to Social Security disability requirements, the impairment caused by the injury must prevent the disabled individual from engaging in substantial gainful employment and must be expected to last for 12 months or longer or result in death. In addition, the medical condition the disabled individual suffers from must be medically established. Injuries that may qualify for Social Security disability benefits can include severe neck or back injuries, head injuries, traumatic brain injuries, paralysis, neurological disorders, chronic pain and other disabling injuries and health concerns.
A variety of different options are also available for disabled individuals including workers’ compensation or Supplemental Security Income. Supplemental Security Income is not based on work history, such as Social Security disability benefits and workers’ compensation benefits, and it is based on need provided that other requirements to qualify for disability are met. Disabled individuals may need help with everyday costs after they are left unable to work due to a disabling injury.
Different options, including Social Security disability benefits for injuries, are available for the protection of those disabled by a serious injury. It is important for disabled individuals who are no longer able to earn a living to be familiar with the disability protections that may be available to help them and how to apply for benefits when needed.
