Catastrophic injuries change lives in an instant—and forever. Whether caused by a serious car crash, a fall, or a worksite accident, these injuries often require extensive and ongoing care. While most people focus on current medical bills when filing a personal injury claim, future medical needs are just as important—if not more so—when securing a fair settlement.
Accounting for future medical expenses is critical when negotiating a settlement or pursuing a lawsuit. At Elmore Law Office, our Portsmouth personal injury attorney represents clients in New Hampshire and Massachusetts whose catastrophic injuries demand long-term care and resources.
What Are Future Medical Needs?
Future medical needs refer to any anticipated medical care, treatment, or support a person will require after resolving a personal injury claim.
For victims of catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, amputations, or severe burns, these needs may include:
- Multiple follow-up surgeries.
- Physical and occupational therapy.
- In-home nursing or long-term care.
- Prescription medications.
- Medical devices or prosthetics.
- Mental health counseling.
- Home and vehicle modifications for accessibility.
These are not optional expenses—they are often essential for maintaining basic quality of life.
Why Are Future Needs Overlooked?
Insurance companies frequently attempt to limit payouts to current, documented costs. They may argue that future care is speculative or unnecessary, especially if the injury isn’t visibly apparent or the victim appears to be “doing better.”
Unfortunately, this shortsighted approach can leave victims without the resources they need just a few years—or even months—after a settlement.
That’s why working with a personal injury attorney who understands how to project future costs and negotiate or litigate accordingly is essential.
How Are Future Medical Costs Calculated?
Accurately estimating future care requires input from a team of professionals.
That may include:
- Medical specialists outline the expected course of treatment.
- Life care planners who map out daily and long-term care needs.
- Economists who calculate the inflation-adjusted cost of care over time.
In New Hampshire and Massachusetts, a personal injury settlement should reflect what’s been lost and what the injury will cost for the rest of the victim’s life. Our attorney works closely with these experts to present a clear, evidence-based case for full compensation.
Don’t Settle for Less Than You Deserve
When catastrophic injuries occur, a quick settlement often benefits the insurance company, not the victim. Accepting a low offer now could result in financial hardship later, when the real costs of care begin to mount.
At Elmore Law Office, we fight for injury victims to receive the full value of their claims, including future medical needs. Whether your injury occurred on I-95 in Massachusetts, rural New Hampshire, or anywhere, we’re here to help you move forward with security and peace of mind.
Contact Elmore Law Office Today
If you or a loved one has suffered a catastrophic injury, don’t navigate your future alone. Contact Elmore Law Office at (603) 929-1117 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation today. We’ll ensure your settlement includes everything you need—not just now, but for the road ahead.