A car accident can be a very traumatic experience. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a vehicle accident occurs every 10 seconds in the U.S. While quite a few accidents result in deaths, individuals who survive often have a number of long-lasting psychological and sometimes physical issues.
Car accidents, especially ones where occupants suffer severe injuries, can mean long-term hospitalization, therapy and a number of anxieties related to the accident. Hopefully, by this time, you will already have a good personal injury lawyer working on the case to secure you the compensation you deserve.
Unforeseen PTSD and Stress After a Car Accident
While you are convalescing, the world doesn’t stop. There will still be bills to pay, errands that need running and children to tend to. All of this is disrupted when you are in the hospital. It can be a nightmare and cause a great deal of pressure. But more than anything else, the psychological pressures of dealing with the aftermath of a car accident can be especially hard.
According to a British study, it is believed that more than one-third of individuals in non-fatal car suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and phobias over a year after the accident. If you have been involved in a car accident and feel the onset of stress or anxiety, the best thing to do is seek out professional help immediately.
Stress from the trauma of an accident can linger on for months and years. It can affect your relationship with friends, family, and even your job. This can eventually lead to depression and other issues like sleep deprivations.
Dr. Alan Steinberg of the UCLA Trauma Psychiatric Program recommends that if several months have passed and you still feel a level of anxiety, you need to contact a professional who is experienced in treating PTSD.
From a physical standpoint, you should be under the care of a physician. If you have had back, knee and neck injuries, you should contact your chiropractor. They will develop a course of action to lessen the pain and help you recuperate.
You will likely be unable to work for a while after you have been released from the hospital. It is imperative that you follow your primary care physician’s orders for the duration. Although there will be the temptation to do go back to your normal life, it simply won’t be possible for a while. Many physical activities around the house will have to be taken on by other family members. Rest is your best friend. You don’t want to have a relapse, so take it easy.
Mounting Costs for Recovery
Physical and psychological therapies cost a great deal of money. If the accident results in paralysis or permanent disfigurement, the cost could rise exponentially. This is why only an experienced attorney should take on your case. A personal injury attorney can thoroughly investigate your case and get you the money you deserve.
A far as your financial status while recuperation, there are remedies for that. If your injuries are severe enough, you will be able to get disability while off from work. In some case, your employer may also have a short or long-term disability program where you can still receive your checks while you are off from work.
Recovering from a car accident can be a very tedious process. The trauma experienced can affect you in many ways. There can also be physical and financial ramifications. The key is having a good personal injury attorney at your side to help you in all areas. While you recover, your attorney will work behind the scenes to ensure you are taken care of on every level.
If you have been in a car accident, call one of our offices today and get a free consultation.
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