Surviving a mass shooting often means dealing with much more than just the initial trauma. Many victims face lasting physical injuries and psychological effects that require long-term care. In these cases, recovery is not something that happens in days or even weeks—it can take years. A lawyer, like a mass shooting lawyer, knows that long-term support can involve physical therapy, trauma counseling, in-home assistance, and modifications to the home or workplace. Getting access to this kind of care often depends on legal action and financial support.
Ongoing Medical And Mental Health Needs
Victims who survive mass shootings may have injuries that cause permanent disability or require repeated surgeries. In addition to physical recovery, mental health care is often just as important. Survivors may experience anxiety, depression, or symptoms of post-traumatic stress. They may struggle to sleep, return to work, or feel safe in public.
Some will need medications, therapy sessions, or both for an extended period. Others may need rehabilitation to regain mobility, speech, or basic motor functions. These services are critical and often expensive, especially for those without adequate health insurance.
Caregivers And Daily Support
In more severe cases, survivors may require help with day-to-day tasks. Family members often step in as caregivers, sometimes giving up their jobs or making major changes to their lives to provide support. Outside help may also be needed, such as home health aides, transportation services, or medical equipment.
These long-term needs can place a major financial burden on families. While emergency response and short-term aid may cover immediate costs, survivors often need legal support to secure ongoing care. Compensation through civil lawsuits or victim compensation funds can be used to pay for these services over time.
Legal Options That Can Support Long-Term Recovery
Depending on the situation, survivors may have legal options for seeking compensation. This could include claims against individuals, businesses, or even third parties who failed to provide proper security. In some cases, civil lawsuits result in settlements that help pay for a lifetime of care needs. Finding the right lawyer is crucial to your claim.
It is important to document the full extent of a victim’s injuries and ongoing needs when building a case. This includes future therapy, assistive devices, lost income, and pain and suffering. Without this full picture, victims may receive less compensation than they need to cover long-term care.
Victim Compensation Funds And Assistance Programs
In addition to lawsuits, survivors may qualify for victim compensation programs run by state or local governments. These programs can sometimes cover medical bills, mental health care, or lost wages. Some federal programs also offer support, particularly when incidents are classified as acts of terrorism or involve federal jurisdiction.
However, these resources can be limited and may not meet every need. That’s why legal claims remain an important part of long-term recovery for many survivors and their families.
Recovery Takes Time And Support
The aftermath of a mass shooting doesn’t end when the headlines fade. Survivors often face a long road, both physically and emotionally. The right care can make a big difference, but it can also be difficult to afford or access without support.
Attorneys, like those at Deitch + Rogers, know that long-term care is not a luxury—it’s a necessity for those trying to rebuild their lives after an event that changed everything. Legal guidance and financial compensation can help victims focus on healing without the added stress of wondering how they will get the care they need. If you were injured in a mass shooting, please speak with a trusted lawyer today.