Becoming Mentally Disabled After a Car Accident in Manhattan

The definition of a mental disability is more complex than many realize in New York. A mental disability does not necessarily mean that you are unable to have complex thoughts or engage in meaningful conversations. Mental disabilities can be extremely subtle, and this is often the case after a car accident in Manhattan. These accidents can lead to traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that become legitimate disabilities. What are your options after an incident like this? Are you legally disabled now?

When Does a Car Accident Head Injury Lead to Mental Disability?

According to the New York Division of Human Rights, the legal definition of a disability is quite simple. The only requirement is that your disability prevents you from exercising a normal bodily function. There is no requirement to prove that your disability is sufficiently severe, and it can be mental in nature. After all, the use of your brain is a normal bodily function. If this is impaired in any way, you may be legally disabled.

If your head injury is preventing you from performing a major life function, you may also be disabled under the Americans with Disability Act (ADA). This “major life function” is often work-related, but not always. For example, you may no longer have the ability to engage in highly complex thought processes required for your previous career path. If this is the case, you are probably mentally disabled under federal and state law.

How Does My Mental Disability Affect My Future After a Car Accident?

A mental disability can affect your future in many ways after a car accident. First, you may find it difficult to continue with your current career path. You might need to pursue a new career path, and your new options could be less lucrative. In this situation, your car accident lawsuit should provide compensation for lost future wages.

A mental disability may also lead to expensive medical treatments. Some brain injury patients must re-learn how to perform basic tasks like walking, eating, talking, dressing, and washing. Rehabilitation can be extensive after a head injury. Again, a car accident claim could potentially cover these costs.

Can a Car Accident Lawyer in Manhattan Help After a Brain Injury?

A car accident lawyer in Manhattan may be able to help if you’re dealing with a traumatic brain injury. It may be extremely challenging to come to terms with the fact that you are now mentally disabled. You should know that you may be eligible to receive considerable compensation for your new disability. As long as you can prove your disability is legitimate, you may receive financial support as you face an uncertain future. Contact Cohan Law, PLLC for more information.

Sources:

 dhr.ny.gov/ada

adata.org/faq/what-definition-disability-under-ada