Motor vehicle accidents are common in California, and they don’t have to involve fatalities to have a physical and emotional impact on the survivors. Here is an overview of what you can expect after a crash.
Immediate reactions
Manage physical trauma the best you can before paramedics arrive. If there is bleeding, apply pressure to the wound. You may have a headache and shoulder, neck or abdominal pain. Try not to move if you have broken bones.
If you find yourself losing control, take deep breaths to steady yourself.
You have experienced a shock, and your emotions may manifest themselves in several ways, including:
- Hysteria
- Anger
- Remorse
- Withdrawal
- Denial
Allow the police to handle the situation without your interference, and never admit guilt at the scenes of any motor vehicle accident.
Delayed reactions
Pain often manifests itself a day or two after an accident. Your doctor may order X-rays to determine the extent of your injuries and give you a prescription for pain medication.
If you have suffered a traumatic brain injury, there may not be any associated pain. However, you may experience memory lapses, communication problems, confusion and loss of coordination. If this is the case, you should see a neurologist as soon as possible. If you wait too long, simple problems may turn into chronic issues.
Post-accident anxiety is common. Some of the symptoms include:
- Sleeplessness
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Heightened stress level
Do not let the emotional trauma from an accident permanently change your quality of life. You can address the problems, but you may need professional help. Reach out to a therapist for support.
Getting back in the driver’s seat
Some people are reluctant to get behind the wheel again after an accident. If you find yourself in this situation, here are some tips you can try:
- Start with short distances
- Practice on quiet streets
- Breathe deeply
Motor vehicle accidents cause physical and emotional trauma. Seek medical and psychological assistance on an as-needed basis, and take time to let yourself heal.