How to Cope in the Days Immediately Following a Car Crash

Motor vehicle collisions can be devastating physically, emotionally, and financially. Fortunately, everyone from first responders to physical therapists can address your healthcare needs following a crash, and a seasoned injury attorney can help you pursue financial compensation for your damages.

When it comes to coping with the emotional aftermath of a wreck, though, a lot of accident victims feel as though they are on their own. For example, depending on the severity of the collision, they might have to process the five stages of grief. According to American Family Physician, it is also common to develop post-traumatic stress disorder following a crash.

Although the psychological toll of a wreck may not be visible like other kinds of injuries, it can have just as much of an impact on someone’s life. If you were hurt in an accident and want to recover compensation for non-economic damages like pain and suffering, turn to the Cooper Law Firm.

Attorney N. Eric Cooper helps clients throughout east Texas. Call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free case evaluation with an accident lawyer in Texas.

Read on to learn how you can cope in the days immediately following a car crash:

1. Take Care of Yourself

If the injuries you sustain do not require hospitalization, taking care of yourself in the aftermath of the collision is ultimately up to you. This includes:

• Following the doctor’s orders regarding wound care, physical therapy, and other treatments;
• Getting plenty of rest;
• Eliminating stress;
• Maintaining a balanced diet;
• Avoiding alcohol and other substances that could interact with any pain medication; and
• Getting some gentle exercise or at least some fresh air on a daily basis.

2. Voice Your Feelings

It is natural to feel a flurry of emotions following a wreck. For example, you might vacillate between anger, disbelief, anxiety, irritability, and guilt.

Regardless of the specific emotions you are feeling, discussing them will allow you to process them so you can eventually overcome them. Find someone you trust—a friend, a loved one, or a trained counselor—who will be there to listen when you need to unload.

3. Get Back in the Car

Accident victims often avoid driving for some time after getting into a crash; however, the longer you put off getting back behind the wheel, the harder it will likely be. If you are physically capable of driving but find yourself avoiding doing so, consider seeing a therapist who can help you work through the emotional barrier you are facing.

4. Stick to a Routine 

If you cannot return to work, you will not be able to resume your usual routine, but it is important to devise a new normal and stick to a schedule of some kind. Depression and isolation are common when recovering from serious injuries, but you can keep both at bay by maintaining a normal sleep schedule and giving yourself activities to look forward to every single day.

If you were hurt in a collision that was not your fault, the legal team at the Cooper Law Firm will help you pursue the compensation you deserve so you can focus on your physical and emotional wellbeing. Contact us online, or call 903-297-0037 to schedule a free consultation with an accident attorney in Texas. You can learn more about car wreck claims in Texas by visiting the USAttorneys website.