How VA Disability Ratings Affect Injury Settlements
Posted by Gregory M. Rada | September 23, 2025 | Firm News
When a veteran is injured in an accident, the legal process can quickly become complicated. Not only do they have to consider the personal injury claim itself, but also how their VA disability rating may influence the settlement they receive. Working with our experienced Virginia veterans disability lawyer can help protect both your personal injury compensation and your veterans’ benefits.
Understanding VA Disability Ratings
VA disability ratings are percentages assigned based on the severity of a service-connected condition. These ratings directly impact monthly compensation amounts and can also determine eligibility for additional benefits. When a veteran who already has a disability rating suffers a personal injury, questions often arise about whether the new injury will affect their benefits or increase their rating.
Our VA benefits attorney who serves veterans across the country understands how critical it is to maintain the right balance: securing fair personal injury compensation without jeopardizing the VA disability benefits you already rely on.
Impact On Personal Injury Settlements
A common concern is whether VA disability compensation will be reduced if a personal injury settlement is awarded. In most cases, VA disability payments are not offset by settlements from civilian lawsuits. However, there are exceptions—such as cases involving third-party liability claims through the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) or situations where VA healthcare costs are reimbursed.
Because each case is unique, having direct communication with our attorney can provide clarity. Veterans should feel confident that their lawyer is addressing both sides of the equation: maximizing the personal injury claim while preserving hard-earned VA disability benefits.
Evidence And Overlapping Injuries
Another challenge arises when a personal injury aggravates an existing service-connected condition. For example, if a veteran with a 30% rating for a knee injury is later involved in a motor vehicle collision that worsens the condition, both the VA and the personal injury insurer may need to evaluate the overlap. Strong medical documentation is essential in showing how much of the injury is service-connected versus accident-related.
Attorneys with proven results in veterans’ disability law and personal injury cases know how to collect and present this evidence effectively. The goal is always to protect the client’s benefits while achieving the highest possible recovery in the injury case.
Coordinating Benefits And Settlements
In some cases, a personal injury settlement may impact other forms of government benefits such as SSDI or workers’ compensation. While VA disability is generally safe, coordinating benefits requires careful planning. Veterans need to know that the financial support they fought for through the VA will not be compromised because of a personal injury settlement.
Protecting Your Rights As An Injured Victim And A Veteran
Managing the relationship between VA disability ratings and personal injury settlements requires skill, preparation, and a deep understanding of both systems. At Gregory M. Rada, Attorney at Law, our attorney is a veteran for veterans, meaning you’ll have an advocate who not only understands your military background but also respects the sacrifices you’ve made. With proven results, direct communication, and no fees unless you win, you can trust your case is in good hands.
If you’re a veteran facing questions about how your VA disability benefits may affect your injury settlement, don’t go through it alone. Schedule a free consultation today and take the first step toward protecting both your financial recovery and your well-deserved VA benefits.
