Car accidents can bring about all kinds of unfortunate injuries and traumatic experiences. One of the least known effects of car accidents is the post-traumatic stress those involved can develop after the accident. Whether you were the victim, or the negligent driver, both parties to a car accident can develop mental issues as a result of the crash. If you are involved in a car accident or a Newport car accident lawsuit, here is some pertinent information that may be able help you cope with any post-car accident trauma you may have.
How Are Car Accidents Associated With Post-Traumatic Stress?
Most car accidents happen unexpectedly, that is why they are classified as accidents. As such, the initial collision is usually a surprise to both drivers, often times leaving them both startled right off the bat. Many people get caught up in the fact that they were unprepared or unable to stop the accident. Even if you are being cautious and obeying all traffic laws, there are other drivers on the road that are not as diligent, so it is important to know that it really can happen to anyone.
What Are Some Common Symptoms?
- Shock and Disbelief: In the days after an accident people can experience shock and disbelief, leaving those involved feeling numb, emotionally distressed, or continually fearful. Depending on the severity of the accident, bystanders can also experience shock.
- Anger and Irritability: It is natural to feel angry towards the other driver when you’ve been in an accident. Often times we displace our anger and take it out on the people we love so it is important to relax, be thankful for your health, and possibly learn some breathing exercises as a way to calm down.
- Guilt: Drivers often times get down on themselves after an accident because they feel as if it was preventable. While many accidents are avoidable, we must remember that we are human and mistakes do happen.
- Anxiety: Those involved in a serious crash can develop anxiety about driving in general.
How Can I Cope With These Symptoms?
First and foremost, you need to know that this can (and does) happen to anyone. One of the most tried and true solutions for dealing with stress is staying active. Even the smallest amount of exercise can go a long way in terms of coping with stress and trauma. Of course, if you are injured in the accident you should consult your doctor about any limits to your movement. Furthermore, try your best to quickly get back into your regular routine. After car accidents we can be left without a car or contained to the couch due to injury, but the quicker you can get back into the swing of things, the quicker you can put your traumatic accident behind you. Many people are also afraid to get back behind the wheel, but it is of great importance that you “get back on the horse” as soon as possible and regain your confidence as a driver. Finally, in extreme cases, we recommend seeing a therapist as they are trained in helping people cope with these types of stress and trauma.
Why Call d’Oliveira & Associates?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, please do not hesitate to contact an experienced Newport, RI car accident lawyer. Each of our lawyer has at least 18 years handling these types of cases and charges absolutely no legal fees until we have successfully secured the settlement or award you are entitled to. We will fight to obtain compensation for all of your losses including medical bills, lost income, scarring, pain and suffering, among other losses. For a free (no-obligation) case consultation, call us anytime at 1-800-992-6878 or fill out a contact form online.
Sources:
- https://familydoctor.org/post-traumatic-stress-after-a-traffic-accident/
- http://accidentalimpacts.org/coping/
- https://www.canstar.com.au/car-insurance/what-emotions-to-expect-after-a-car-accident/
Paul d’Oliveira
Attorney Paul d’Oliveira has been practicing personal injury and disability law for over 30 years. He started his personal injury law practice in 1989 with two offices in Fall River, MA and East Providence, RI. Today his firm has 16 offices in RI and Southeastern, MA.
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