Did you know that December is National Impaired Driving Prevention Month?
Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents tend to increase around this period as more people commute to family functions and drink during holiday parties.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), on average about 25 people are killed in drunk driving crashes per day in December, while countless other people are injured.
Although you might make the right decision and choose not to drink and drive, others on the road may not be as responsible. With this in mind, if you are injured in a car accident, regardless of whether or not it involved a drunk driver, you may be eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
In order to obtain SSDI benefits, you must prove that your injuries are severe enough that they will last for longer than a year and that they may cause you to die. You must have limited function—common injuries that people apply for SSDI benefits following a car accident include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, severe burns and amputations.
In addition to proving that your injuries are catastrophic, you must have earned work credits and paid into the Social Security system prior to your crash. If you have more questions about SSDI eligibility requirements, you can visit our Social Security FAQ page.
You may be asked to provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) with medical documents in order to have a successful SSDI claim.
How is SSDI Important Following a Vehicle Accident?
Your world can change quickly following a car accident—you may have to deal with insurers and enter into litigation in order to hold someone accountable. This is especially true if you experience significant injuries. A crash may leave you unable to work and struggling financially.
SSDI benefits can help tremendously when it comes to paying for healthcare and living expenses following a vehicle accident. If you have questions about applying for benefits or appeals process, make sure you seek legal guidance.
