WC responsibilities 100% disabled
 

Hello,
The problem I have is around a settled WC case in 1998. They are responsible for my Dr bills and anything related to back injury.

After 2012 surgery # 14, fused T10 to S1, I have lost the ability to walk and stand for any period of time. I have a R dropped foot and losing the Left foot now. I am a very bad risk for anymore surgeries, the last 2 were over 10 hours on the operation table.

I just had emergency sinus surgery from a closed infected sinus where I didn't wake up for almost 3 days.

I was just approved for a motorized wheelchair and lift for SUV. I held off for as long as I can to walk again.
The vehicle I have now is a leased one but that runs out in 2 years. It really doesn't fit my needs but it came down to what we can afford. Living on SSI and Pension isn't easy. I was hurt at 37 with 2 young boys and helped get them through college, youngest graduated this year.

We can not afford the van we need to get me around, plus the alterations so I can drive too.
What is WC responsible for? Are the liable to help get a handicap van? Is there any State or Government loans, funding, or grants available?

We lost our home during the accident time and rent now. We have a hard time not being in handicap equipped condo. To make it so would be in violation of lease. From what I understand new complexes have to have a percentage of totally handicapped ADA approved apts. and condos. A "walk in tub" would be like hitting the Lottery.
Is there any help out there? This is a big, big change in our lives. My Wife has been wonderful taking care of me, but this will change everything. She won't be able to do the physical stuff needed once my condition fully changes.
I also live in the country part of NJ, cattle and farming area.I travel over an hour and 1/2 one way to see Doctors and 2 plus to go into NYC, Columbia Presbyterian for testing and surgical procedures.

Being injured and losing use of my legs is almost catastrophic for us. Even more so without WC's help.

if anyone can help with ideas and answers we would greatly appreciate it!!!

thanks John and Et

Each state has it's own WC laws. You'd have to research NJ WC rules.

You can often find used vans with wheelchair lifts already installed on Craigslist.

You mentioned you're receiving SSI, but I believe you mean SSDI.

You might want to call the Red Cross for referrals for charity/gov program help. An organization like Habitat for Humanity would help build a home with accommodations for you. Depending on your area, you might find government housing for the disabled that is already retrofitted to accommodate your needs.

The USDA offers home loans in rural areas that are sometimes subsidized for those with low income. http://eligibility.sc.egov.usda.gov/...lcomeAction.do

It also depends on the terms of the settlement, like ongoing medical ?
Or a payout with no ongoing care?

Jomar, he said open med. ;)

How'd I miss that?? :o

Isn't it sorted out in writing exactly what is covered in the final paperwork?
Like surgery & PT & meds, probably... probably pre approval is a must also..

If you don't have you original settlement paperwork , contact your state WC /employment agency and I'm sure they can send you a copy.
They probably can give you contacts/ info for the details and accommodations you're asking about.