You’re out running errands, driving through your neighborhood, when out of nowhere, another car hits you. It seems like car accidents always happen at the most unexpected times and it’s sure to be a huge shock!
In a matter of seconds, an accident can completely change your life. While we’re sure you know to call the police and never leave the scene after an accident, do you know how to manage the car crash recovery process?
To keep yourself safe, there are a few things you should always do after you’ve been involved in a car crash. To learn more, keep reading to find five key steps that you should always take.
1. Seek Medical Care
After a car crash, the first thing you should always do is seek medical care. Often, an ambulance will arrive on the scene after an accident—even if you feel fine, let them examine you.
Accidents can happen so fast, you might be in shock and not even realize that you’ve been injured, so getting help from the paramedics is always a good idea. You’ll also want to check yourself for any cuts, bruises, or pains, as looking after your health is always the most important thing.
For serious injuries, they’ll take you immediately to the hospital so you can start receiving medical care. This can be frightening, so it’s ok to ask the hospital to call a loved one for you.
Even if paramedics didn’t arrive on the scene, consider a visit to your family doctor the day after, just to rule out any injuries. After an accident, it’s common to feel whiplash, or neck and back pain, plus other pains like bruising, headaches, and grazed skin.
2. Call Your Insurance Company
Across the US, car accidents account for a staggering $463.0 billion in expenses. Who pays most of it? You guessed it–insurance companies.
Although your yearly auto insurance premiums might seem expensive, it’s worth it for the help they can provide you after an accident. After all, that’s what they’re there for!
As soon as possible after your accident, give your insurer a call and file a report. This will help you get your claim paid quickly, helping with vehicle repairs and medical bills.
Your insurance company is likely going to ask for a police report from the accident, which is why you always want to call the police, even for mild fender benders. You’ll also need to give a statement as to your side of the story and also the contact details for the other driver.
3. Rest and Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
After the accident, it’s a good idea to take it easy for a while, taking time off work if you can. Always follow your doctor’s instructions, taking medicine as needed and changing any bandage or gauze.
Many people want to get back to normal life as soon as possible, but trying to do too much straight after your accident can just prolong your recovery. Remember that your body has been through something traumatic and needs time to heal.
Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, look after your body, and spend a few days on the couch!
4. Consult an Auto Crash Lawyer
Often, accidents can quickly become a massive problem, especially when both sides can’t agree on who is at fault. While it would be ideal if people could be truthful and helpful, this sadly isn’t always the case when it comes to auto accidents.
If you’re worried about getting your claims paid out or you’re being accused of causing the accident when the other driver was at fault, then you might need to hire a car accident attorney.
An auto crash lawyer can work with you on your case, advocating for your rights. Look for a firm with experience in handling cases similar to your own, as this can give you the best chance of success in the courtroom.
To find a reputable lawyer in your area, you can search online or ask friends or family for recommendations. Just be sure to hire someone professional, caring, and genuine, with the skills needed to win your case.
5. Look After Your Mental Health
One side of car crash recovery that’s sometimes neglected is its impact on your mental health. The shock of being in an accident can be very traumatic, sometimes even causing post-traumatic stress.
If you’re feeling scared to get in a car again, anxious, or depressed after your accident, know that this isn’t uncommon. It can be a good idea to take some time to look after your mental health—talk to friends, indulge in some self-care, and be sure to get plenty of rest.
However, if you’re really struggling after your accident, know that support is available. You might find it beneficial to meet with a therapist to get some coping strategies and look after yourself.
Manage Your Car Crash Recovery Process With These Tips
No one wants to find themselves in a car accident, but unfortunately, they can happen to anyone. If you do happen to be part of an accident, use this car crash recovery guide to get yourself back on your feet.
Throughout the process, remember to be kind to yourself! No matter who was at fault in the accident, these things can happen, so focus on yourself and your own recovery.
Eventually, you’ll be back to living your normal life, with the stress of the accident long behind you.
If you found this article helpful, please keep reading to learn more.
