Anyone who has suffered an accident that resulted in a deterioration of their health is entitled to compensation for the impairment of their health. But who is responsible for paying this compensation? What is the amount of such compensation? What other benefits are available for permanent health impairment? You will find the key details below.

According to the official legal definition, a health impairment is a disruption of physical or mental functioning caused by an accident or illness. There are two types: permanent health impairment, where the victim’s condition is not expected to improve, and long-term health impairment, where the condition affects the victim for more than six months but is expected to improve. Health impairment can result from a workplace accident, a traffic accident, an agricultural accident, or actions of third parties, but it can also occur without any third-party involvement. The Criminal Code further distinguishes between minor health impairment (less than seven days), moderate health impairment (treatment lasting more than seven days), and severe health impairment (resulting in permanent and irreversible damage to the body).

Who Pays Compensation for Health Impairment?

Compensation for health impairment can be paid from various sources depending on the cause of the accident:

• If the accident occurred at work, the victim is entitled to a one-time compensation from the Social Insurance Institution (ZUS), with the amount calculated for each percentage of impairment. Additionally, the victim can seek compensation from their employer or the insurer with whom they have a liability insurance policy. More on how to claim compensation for health impairment after a workplace accident can be found here: (link to the text „compensation for workplace accident”).
• If the accident belonged to traffic incidents, the victim can claim compensation for health impairment from the at-fault party’s liability insurance. More on how to claim compensation after a traffic accident can be found here: (link to the text „compensation for traffic accident”).
• If the victim holds an accident insurance policy (NNW), compensation may be paid by the insurer. It’s important to thoroughly review the policy terms to understand which incidents are covered.

How to Claim Compensation for Health Impairment?

To receive compensation, a claim for health impairment must be submitted to the relevant insurance company, along with complete documentation. Required documents include:

• A workplace accident report (for workplace accidents) or a police report (for traffic accidents),
• Medical documentation – medical history, emergency room discharge summary, hospital discharge papers,
• Receipts for all treatment and rehabilitation costs,
• Referrals to specialist clinics, medical recommendations,
• Sick leave certificates,
• Specialists’ opinions on the health condition,
• Court judgments.

Pursuing compensation for health impairment can be challenging. To effectively secure compensation after an unfortunate accident, it’s best to use the services of a professional claims office, such as the Polska Kancelaria Pomocy Poszkodowanym.

How Do We Operate?

1. We analyze the case and estimate the compensation amount free of charge.
2. We sign a contract under clear and fair terms.
3. We assist in gathering the necessary documentation and determine the Insurance Company.
4. We submit a compensation claim to the insurer.
5. We negotiate the compensation amount for health impairment.
6. If the insurer offers an undervalued settlement, we take the case to court on behalf of the client.
7. We handle civil and criminal cases at every stage – representing clients in court.
8. A decision is made, and compensation is paid.

We provide services throughout Poland and offer free home visits to clients. We ensure transparency by allowing clients to monitor case progress on a CRM platform specifically designed for them. We prioritize clear terms of cooperation, recognizing that the compensation amount often provides crucial financial support for the victim – we fight for the highest compensation.

When Is Compensation for Health Impairment Paid?

The payout depends on the complexity of the claim process. Generally, the insurance company has 30 days to respond to the claim, followed by 7 days to disburse the compensation. If the case goes to court, the process takes longer, but it’s worth the wait as it often results in a higher compensation payout.

What Other Benefits Are Available for Health Impairment?

In addition to compensation, the victim may also receive damages, a disability pension if they are permanently unable to work, as well as reimbursement for treatment and rehabilitation costs and lost earnings.

How Much Is the Compensation for Health Impairment?

The amount of compensation depends on several factors, such as:

• Whether it is a long-term or permanent health impairment,
• The degree of impairment,
• The type of impairment (physical or mental),
• The impact of the impairment on the victim,
• The costs incurred by the victim as a result of the injury.

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