Service-Related Vehicle Crashes:

To be eligible for VA disability benefits resulting from a vehicle crash during active service, you must meet the following:

  • Service Connection: The crash occurred during active duty service (on base or off base, in a military or civilian vehicle). This includes while you were on leave or a pass.

  • Current Disabilities: You have lingering disabilities or injuries caused by the crash, such as:

    • Physical injuries (broken bones, amputations, etc.)

    • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

    • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

    • Spinal cord injuries

    • Chronic pain

Common Service-Related Vehicle Crash Injuries & VA Ratings:

The VA rates service-connected disabilities based on their severity and impact on your life. Here are some common crash-related injuries and how they might be rated:

  • Amputations: Rated based on the limb and level of amputation.

  • Scars: Rated based on location, size, and disfigurement.

  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Rated based on the severity of cognitive and functional impairment.

  • PTSD: Rated from 0% to 100% based on how much it affects your work and social life.

  • Musculoskeletal Injuries: Ratings depend on the specific joint or muscle affected and the range of motion limitations.

  • Spinal Cord Injuries: Rated according to the level of impairment and paralysis.

Important Considerations:

  • Delayed Onset of Symptoms: Even if you don't have immediate symptoms, some disabilities (like PTSD or TBI) can manifest later. Document any changes in your health that might be later linked to the crash.

  • Secondary Conditions: Injuries from a crash can lead to other health problems like chronic pain, depression, or sleep disorders. File for these as secondary conditions when service-connected.

  • Presumptive Conditions: If your crash occurred in certain areas, like Southwest Asia, you may be eligible for presumptive service connections based on exposure to toxic elements.

Vehicle crash claims can be complex, especially if you sustained multiple injuries or your symptoms appeared later. Consider working with an accredited veterans law attorney experienced in VA disability claims.