The Overlooked Costs of an Auto Accident in Santa Cruz

The Overlooked Costs of an Auto Accident in Santa Cruz

What You See Isn’t the Whole Story

When an auto accident happens, attention immediately goes to what’s visible—dented metal, cracked glass, bruises. But in Santa Cruz, like anywhere else, the true cost of a crash often lies beneath the surface. Lost wages, delayed injuries, emotional distress, and unexpected bills can surface days or even weeks after the wreck.

These are the things insurance companies tend to downplay. If you’re not prepared to look beyond the obvious, you could end up settling for far less than what your situation actually demands.

Medical Bills Add Up Quickly

Even with good insurance, medical care after a crash can become expensive fast. Ambulance rides, emergency room visits, physical therapy, follow-up exams, and prescription costs often stretch far beyond what a quick settlement will cover.

Many people accept lowball offers simply to get it over with—without realizing the full extent of their injuries. A Santa Cruz auto accident attorney like Schaar & Silva knows how to look at the long-term picture and help ensure nothing gets missed when evaluating your case.

Time Away from Work Isn’t Always Reimbursed

If your injury keeps you from working, that lost income needs to be part of your claim. But insurance companies don’t always account for it automatically. You may need to prove not just that you missed work, but that the accident directly caused your inability to earn.

For many, this becomes one of the most frustrating aspects of a post-accident recovery—especially if pain or doctor restrictions prevent returning to full duties. Legal guidance ensures this part of your loss isn’t treated as an afterthought.

Your Life Has Been Disrupted—That Matters

Beyond bills and insurance forms, your routine has likely been turned upside down. From missed family events to sleepless nights, the disruption can feel endless. At Schaar & Silva, your story is more than numbers on a claim form.

If you’ve been in a crash and need a Santa Cruz auto accident attorney who pays attention to the full picture, not just the paperwork, it may be time to speak with someone who understands what recovery really looks like—on your terms.