If you were in a major wreck, you likely have major injuries. Generally, major injuries such as surgeries on your neck, shoulder, back, and legs prevent some folks from working like they used to. Major injuries such as a traumatic brain injury or amputation prevent people from working substantively at all. However, most clients we have that sustain these major injuries WANT to go back to work in some capacity. They just simply can't do what they used to do. I love these clients.
Can You Go Back To Work?
Absolutely! In fact, I encourage it if you can. Your life will never be the same, but you knew that a while ago. Now the tasks in front of you are to make the most of every day. Your work will not be the same. When we go through our meetings, we will discuss these things. If you can't go back to work doing what you used to do, then read further about retraining options.
What Will Happen To My Case?
It will still continue to go on as expected. One thing people understand is that you would give any amount of money to have your life back the way it was before the truck crossed the center line or a drunk driver got on the road and crashed into you. The key is to make sure the jury understands that what you are doing is trying to be better, not allowing yourself to be worse. There is a big distinction there. You may not be able to do much, but doing as much as you can shows the defense and jury that you have a positive spin on your life and skills. You are showing that you are credible and you are 100% willing to give it a try and get back to their normal day to day. With that being said, you still want to be smart and not rush back into doing something that you may not be 100% ready to do. Your health and wellbeing should always be first priority.
What Will The Defense Argue?
The defense will argue that "look this person is back to working, being a productive citizen. They don't need any money." They will argue this because if you are working, it must mean you are fine, right? Wrong. Just because you are back at work does not mean you are fine and we will show that. At the end of the day, the defense will always try to get a pass if you are able to do some work. We will not let them get a pass for what they caused.
What If You Don't Have Any Other Skills?
What we always see happen in major crashes involving blue-collar hard workers or construction workers is "I don't have a college education or know how to do anything else". That's okay. Many of my clients have been in the construction industry. You have a few options. We can help you figure out what you want to do next and get you to a trade school or training center to become certified in that area. It will take some work, but we will argue this is what the defense must pay for because they took your livelihood away. You can learn these skills.
If you now have significant permanent injuries that prevent you from even doing this, then consider joining some support groups to help motivate others that they can have a life. Then, if you are feeling really good about it, start a non-profit to continue to spread the word. There are many options we can help you with. It doesn't mean you have to do any of this, but the options are out there.
Reach Out To Us For Anything Along The Way
At the end of the day, we are here for you. Whether you are in therapy trying to come back to the work you used to do or training for new skills, let us know how we can help you along the way. Keep it up and develop your new normal. Just know that the defense does not get a pass simply because you are a motivated person.
