Coping with the financial, physical, and emotional trauma of a car accident
Being involved in a car accident can be among the most terrifying and stressful events. You may need to deal with the police, insurance agents, lost income, medical bills, and emotional trauma all at once.
In such a moment, you may feel like things are falling apart. Luckily, with help from professional legal counsel, therapists, friends, and family, you can move past this distressful stage and get your life back on track.
If you are currently stuck in the devastating aftermath of an accident, here are some tips to help you deal with your financial, physical, and emotional trauma.
But First, Can You Get Compensation for Damages After a Car Accident?
You will probably have too many bills to pay after a car accident. Your vehicle may need repairs, medical bills may be piling fast, and you may have to miss work due to your injuries.
If another driver’s negligence led to the accident that caused you financial, physical, and emotional trauma, you might be eligible for compensation. However, this will depend on whether you can prove three elements: fault, damages, and causation.
The more evidence you have showing the other driver’s negligence, the easier it will be to prove these elements. Your chances of getting a favorable outcome often increase if you have an experienced car accident attorney on your side.
How Much Can You Recover from Car Accident?
Besides proving fault, you must know your claim’s value. Often, recoverable damages after a car accident are divided into three major categories: economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
Economic damages are tangible losses like medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. On the other hand, non-economic damages cover losses with no monetary value, such as emotional distress or pain and suffering. Punitive damages are often awarded by the court to punish the defendant, especially if your injuries resulted from gross negligence or wrongful actions.
The amount you stand to recover in a car accident claim will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injury and its impact on your lifestyle.
For example, your settlement could exceed $100,000 if you suffered a severe injury such as a neck or back injury. However, your compensation for minor injuries like lacerations, broken bones, and bruised ribs may not be as high.
How to Cope After a Car Accident
Prioritize Self-Care
Though it may seem challenging, one of the best things you can do after a car accident is to prioritize your self-care. Simply put, you must take the time to rest physically and emotionally to allow your body to recover quickly.
Additionally, you must eat well, avoid alcohol, and exercise regularly to release any built-up tension and stress. You can also spend time with loved ones or friends who can provide the much-needed support you need to feel good about yourself during this difficult time.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help.
The physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial distress after an accident can be too overwhelming to deal with alone. However, seeking assistance from friends and professional therapists can help you cope with your situation.
While talking about your experience may not feel like a positive thing at first, you’ll find relief in sharing your story with others who understand what you’re going through over time. Additionally, try to look for someone who has had a similar experience and ask them to offer advice on how they coped following their car accident.
Seek Legal Assistance from an Experienced Attorney
Depending on the severity of the car crash, there may be legal proceedings that you may have to get involved in. For example, if you were not at fault, you may want to pursue compensation from the at-fault party through an injury claim or lawsuit.
Whether your case involves settlement negotiations or trial in court, ensure you have an experienced car accident attorney on your side. The last thing you want is to try navigating an injury claim or lawsuit alone, as you are likely to make mistakes that could hurt your claim’s value.
