Direct impact during a car crash can cause victims to suffer chipped or knocked out teeth, along with other dental injuries. These injuries can be costly to repair, especially when surgery is involved. If your dental injuries are the result of a car crash caused by another’s negligence, you may be eligible to include these damages in your injury claim against the at-fault party’s insurance.
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Were you injured in a car accident? Contact our trusted South Bend car accident lawyers to learn more about your legal rights. We have more than 170 years of combined experience and are dedicated to helping our clients recover the compensation they deserve after sustaining injuries and other damages in a crash.
Call to request a free consultation today: (574) 444-0741.
How Do I Know if I Am Eligible for Dental Injuries Claims?
Every case is different, and the amount of compensation you may be eligible to receive is based on the type and severity of your injuries. To determine your ability to recover compensation for your dental injuries, along with your other car crash injuries, you will need to discuss your situation with a licensed attorney.
Generally, you may have a case if the other driver in the car accident was at fault and his or her actions caused your injuries. However, victims or their attorneys must prove negligence occurred, so you will need evidence. Evidence that could help to prove your car crash case in South Bend could include the following:
- Police report
- Image taken at the crash scene
- The extent and location of damage to your vehicle
- Medical records created when you seek medical care after the crash
- Statements from credible witnesses
If you intend to seek compensation for your medical costs and other losses, it is important to be aware of Indiana’s statute of limitation. If you miss the filing deadline , you could lose your right to seek compensation. In Indiana, the statute of limitation is two years from the date of the accident.
What Are Some Common Challenges in Dental Injury Claims?
Pursuing compensation for dental injuries after a car crash is often challenging. Insurance companies are likely to push back and try to say your dental injuries existed before the crash. Understanding potential obstacles and how to manage them can help individuals navigate the legal process more effectively.
Proving Liability
Victims must prove the other party was negligent. Your attorney can help you to gather evidence to support and strengthen your case. Without solid proof, it can be difficult to make a compelling case that helps you secure compensation.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies will try to minimize what they pay on a claim by downplaying the severity of your injuries or argue that some treatments are unnecessary.
Generally, insurance companies will attempt to offer a low initial settlement. This means they will likely offer you a payout that is much lower than what you might be entitled to. An experienced attorney knows that initial offer will likely not even begin to cover the damages you sustained and negotiate for a settlement that covers your injuries.
If your claim is denied by the insurance company, you have the right to appeal that decision. This process is time-consuming and may require additional documentation and evidence.
Medical Documentation
Your medical record can show how your dental injuries have impacted your life. For instance, X-rays, CT scans and MRIs could visibly display fractures, dislodged teeth or jawbone damage. Treatment records can also give insight into dental procedures such as fillings, crowns or surgeries. This type of evidence shows the extent of your injuries as well as how long the treatment process may take.
Types of Dental Injuries After a Car Accident
Dental injuries can cause physical pain, but they also are disfiguring, which can impact the quality of a victim’s life and cause them to suffer emotional distress. The severity of these injuries can vary, causing unique challenges and treatment requirements.
Common types of dental injuries that victims may experience after a car crash:
Chipped or Fractured Teeth
These injuries can occur even during a minor collision. A chipped tooth may lead to sharp pain and increased sensitivity, especially when consuming hot or cold foods. Repairing a chipped or fractured tooth often requires cosmetic procedures, such as bonding or crowns, which can be time-consuming and costly.
Knocked-Out Teeth
Having a tooth knocked out during a crash is an upsetting injury that requires immediate dental care to have the tooth reattached. If reattachment is not possible, long-term solutions, such as dental implants or bridges, may be necessary.
Root Damage
Injuries to the root of a tooth can lead to serious complications. This type of damage can lead to infections and chronic pain that may require invasive procedures like root canal therapy. Dealing with root damage may involve multiple dental visits, along with ongoing monitoring of the injury and pain management.
Jaw Injuries
Fractures or dislocations of the jaw can be incredibly painful and may severely limit a person’s ability to eat, speak or perform daily activities. Treatment for jaw injuries could require surgery and the recovery may include rehabilitation to regain function.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Injuries to the gums, cheeks or lips can also occur in car crashes. These injuries can be painful and could lead to complications such as infections if not treated properly. In some cases, the long-term effects of soft tissue damages may include visible scars or nerve damage.
Call Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak After Your Car Accident
Dental injuries from car crashes can have lasting effects on victims’ lives. Understanding your rights and the steps for seeking compensation can aid you in your recovery.
At Pfeifer, Morgan & Stesiak, our experienced attorneys are prepared to help you navigate the complex legal process. During a free consultation, our attorneys can answer your legal questions and explain your rights. If we represent you, there are no upfront fees or costs to pay.
Call us today for your free consultation: (574) 444-0741.
