Car Crash Attorneys for Disability Claims: How Accident Injuries Can Qualify You for SSDI

A serious car accident can change your life in seconds. Beyond physical pain and vehicle damage, many people suffer injuries so severe that they can no longer return to work. If this sounds familiar, you may need more than just an accident lawyer—you may also qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits.

When a Car Crash Leads to Long-Term Disability

Some crash victims never fully recover. Common disabling injuries include:

• Spinal cord damage or herniated discs
• Severe neck and back injuries
• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Amputations or loss of limb function
• Chronic pain or nerve damage
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety

If your injuries prevent you from performing full-time work for at least 12 months, you may qualify for SSDI.

Why You Need a Car Crash Attorney and a Disability Attorney

While car crash attorneys focus on proving negligence and securing a settlement from the at-fault driver, a disability lawyer helps you qualify for ongoing federal benefits when working is no longer possible.

Together, both legal professionals can help you:

• File or appeal your SSDI claim while pursuing your injury settlement
• Coordinate evidence from your car crash medical records for both cases
• Ensure that settlement proceeds don’t reduce your eligibility for disability benefits
• Protect your long-term income and healthcare coverage

How SSDI Evaluates Car Accident Injuries

The Social Security Administration (SSA) reviews whether your injury meets or equals a listed impairment. For car crash survivors, these listings often apply:

• 1.04 – Disorders of the Spine (nerve root compression, spinal fusion)
• 11.18 – Traumatic Brain Injury (cognitive and physical limitations)
• 12.15 – Trauma- and Stress-Related Disorders (PTSD)
• 1.17 – Amputation or Major Joint Dysfunction

Even if you don’t meet a listing, you can still qualify based on your Residual Functional Capacity (RFC)—showing that pain, weakness, or mobility issues prevent any full-time employment.

Evidence That Strengthens Your Claim

• Hospital and surgical reports from the accident
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation notes
• Imaging results (MRI, CT, X-rays)
• Statements from treating physicians on work limitations
• Police accident report (to verify incident details)

Coordinating a Car Accident Case and an SSDI Claim

Timing is key. A personal injury settlement compensates for pain, suffering, and lost wages, while SSDI provides monthly benefits and Medicare eligibility. Skilled car crash attorneys often collaborate with disability lawyers to protect your rights on both fronts.

For example:

• SSDI payments are not affected by injury settlements—but SSI benefits can be.
• Your attorneys can ensure proper documentation so SSA recognizes your limitations.
• If you develop chronic pain after a crash, you can apply for SSDI even years later.

Choosing the Right Attorney Team

Look for attorneys experienced in both personal injury and disability law. At Brooks Law Group and Colling Gilbert Wright, Florida attorneys regularly handle complex cases where physical injuries overlap with SSDI eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I get both an injury settlement and SSDI?

Yes. SSDI is a federal insurance benefit based on your work history, so settlements from car crashes won’t reduce your SSDI payments.

2. How soon should I apply for SSDI after a car crash?

Apply as soon as it’s clear your injuries will keep you from working for at least 12 months. Don’t wait for your lawsuit to finish.

3. What if my car crash caused PTSD or anxiety?

Mental health conditions following trauma can qualify for SSDI under Listing 12.15. SSA considers therapy records, medications, and functional limitations.

4. Do I need two separate attorneys?

Some law firms handle both injury and disability cases, while others collaborate. Either way, coordination ensures evidence supports both claims.

5. How long does SSDI take after a car crash?

Initial decisions take 3–6 months, but appeals can extend longer. Having a disability attorney speeds up documentation and improves approval odds.

Find a Florida Car Crash & Disability Attorney →

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