If you’ve recently experienced a fall that has left you unable to work, your life may suddenly feel uncertain. You may be wondering what your options are and how you will navigate life post-fall. Fortunately, there are several viable options available that can help guide you through this difficult time. In this blog, you’ll learn more about how to navigate life after a fall, giving you the information you need to make the best decision for your situation.
Falling over can be a shock. Not only is there the physical pain, but you may also suffer an emotional blow. This can be especially true if you have been unable to work since your fall. If falling over is impacting your livelihood, it can be an especially worrisome time. When you are in this situation, it’s important to remember that you have options.
Here are some of the things you should consider after a fall, especially if you haven’t been able to work because of it.
Establish Liability
Was the accident caused by negligence? If the fall was due to someone else’s negligence, you may be able to file a personal injury claim. In this case, an injury lawyer may be able to help you get the compensation you deserve for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Remember that liability can potentially sit with a number of different parties. For example, if the fall happened at your workplace due to faulty equipment, then the employer may be liable. If it happened on a public street due to a surface or obstruction, then the local government could be liable. If it happened in a store or restaurant due to a slip or trip, then the company may be liable.
Seek Medical Treatment and Support
Of course, you should seek medical assistance after a fall. Not only will this help to ensure you get the care you need to get better, it also provides a record of your injuries if you do need to pursue a legal or insurance claim. It’s important to seek medical attention after a fall, even if you don’t think it was serious, as injuries can worsen over time if left untreated.
Remember that you may need ongoing medical help too, and not just in the aftermath of a fall. Physical therapy and other treatments may be needed on an ongoing basis, so speak to your doctor about the best long-term plan for you.
Seek Out Financial Assistance
If your fall has left you unable to work, you may be eligible for financial assistance. You may be eligible for social security disability benefits if your injury means you are unable to work. These benefits can help cover your medical bills, as well as provide a monthly income while you recover.
You may also be eligible for other benefits depending on your situation, so speak to an experienced lawyer or a social security disability advocate about what you might be entitled to.
Explore Health Insurance Options
Health insurance is an essential part of any health care plan. Even if you don’t qualify for social security disability benefits, you may still be eligible for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The ACA ensures that everyone in the US has access to affordable health care, regardless of their employment status.
The first thing to do is to contact your insurance company to see what options are available. Double check what they say against your policies, and be sure to read the small print. Depending on your situation, you may be eligible for coverage through the Marketplace or Medicaid. Alternatively, if you already have a policy and you’re unable to work, you may be eligible for a premium reduction or an extension of your coverage.
Look for Support from Friends and Family
Falling over can be a traumatic experience, so it’s important to reach out for support from your friends and family. Whether it’s emotional or practical support, having people around you who understand what you’re going through can be immensely helpful.
They may also be able to help with practical tasks such as grocery shopping or taking care of errands. They may even be able to provide financial assistance if needed.
Take a Mortgage Holiday
If the fall has left you unable to work, then it’s likely that your finances may be affected. If this is the case, then speak to your lender about taking a mortgage holiday. This is where you can take a break from paying your mortgage for a certain amount of time, allowing you to focus on getting back on your feet.
Being upfront with your mortgage provider tends to be appreciated by them, and they may even be able to offer you a reduced rate or an extension of the loan.
Talk to Your Bank
If you have a loan or other debts, then talk to your bank about taking a break from payments. Again, being upfront with them is key, so be honest about your situation and explain why you are unable to make payments.
The bank may then offer a payment holiday for the duration of your recovery, which can help to ease the financial burden.
Whatever your situation after a fall, know that you are not alone and there is help available. Reach out to your family and friends for support, and be sure to speak to your insurance company, lawyer and financial advisors about your options. With the right help, you can get back on track in no time.