When it comes to significant injuries, most people don’t realize how much of a financial burden they can be. In addition to the obvious cost of potential medical bills, serious injuries can, in many cases, also prevent you from working. Sometimes, this will only be a temporary hiatus from the job, but there are times in which an injured person will have to leave their occupation entirely. Oftentimes, dealing with these things will leave you in dire financial straits and scrambling to make up for that lost income. Fortunately, there are steps you can take after an injury to get your bank account back to where it needs to be.
Apply for Disability
If you’ve suffered an injury that has genuinely left you unable to work, applying for disability through the Social Security Administration may be a viable option. You’ll need to go through an application process and provide proof of your condition, but receiving disability benefits can be a massive help for keeping you financially afloat. Once you get accepted, you’ll start receiving monthly payments to cover your most important expenses. The amount won’t be a king’s ransom, but it’ll be enough to make a major difference.
Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
If the injury you suffered was due to the negligence or actions of another party, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses and suffering. For example, if you slipped and fell at a public place or were injured when another car collided with yours, there’s a good chance that someone else is liable for your injury. If you think this describes your situation, you would be wise to reach out to a personal injury lawyer, even if you’re not sure you have a case. Oftentimes, this type of litigation can result in a large financial boon, so it’s worth exploring as an option.
Start a Business at Home
If you’ve suffered an injury that prevents you from working a typical full-time job, you may still be able to do certain types of work from your home. One option that can be lucrative and fulfilling is starting your own business. You could create some type of homemade craft, teach classes online, or even purchase items in bulk and re-sell them individually for a profit. These are just a few ideas, but the possibilities are endless. If you’re stuck cooped up at home, make the most of that time by thinking outside the box and finding a creative, profitable outlet.
A personal injury can be devastating, but it doesn’t necessarily need to ruin your finances. Even if you’ve become disabled, you have options and resources available that can help you get back to good financial standing; you just need to be willing to explore them. Life is full of challenges, but the way we bounce back and overcome them is what truly defines our character.
Author information: Rachelle Wilber is a freelance writer living in the San Diego, California area. She graduated from San Diego State University with her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies. She tries to find an interest in all topics and themes, which prompts her writing. When she isn’t on her porch writing in the sun, you can find her shopping, at the beach, or at the gym. Follow her on Twitter: @RachelleWilber
