Whether you were on your way to work, running errands or taking a road trip on the day another vehicle hit you, you no doubt recall the sound of metal clashing and the fear you felt upon impact. Then again, if you wound up unconscious or suffered other severe injuries, you might not have any recollection of the collision at all. Many collisions occur in New York every year, and how swift (or arduous) an accident victim’s recovery is depends on several factors.
In addition to physical injuries, you may have experienced emotional trauma when another vehicle collided with yours. Especially if the other driver was distracted at the wheel or driving under the influence of alcohol, you may even have felt frustrated or angry, knowing that it was likely a preventable accident were it not for someone’s negligence.
Taking one step at a time
At the scene of the collision, you hopefully received medical attention as soon as possible. The problem is, not all injuries are immediately apparent, which is why, in the hours and days that follow a collision, it’s critical that you closely monitor your condition in case additional symptoms develop.
It’s a good idea to stay closely connected with a medical support team, and to immediately report any signs of complications, such as dizziness, nausea, pain or numbness in head, body or extremities, or any issue that causes you to feel unwell, because it might be a sign of an underlying injury associated with the collision.
Take time to rest and restore peace of mind
If you’re having trouble sleeping or eating after a New York collision, it helps to understand that such effects are not uncommon. However, if you try to rush right back to your typical daily routine, you might wind up feeling worse down the line. It’s okay, and even recommended, to take time to rest and process what has happened to you.
Sleeping promotes healing, but if you’re suffering from nightmares or all you want to do is sleep, either extreme may be a sign of physical or emotional injury. Never hesitate to reach out for support if you’re having problems resting after a car accident.
Diet, physical therapy and more
You’ll no doubt be able to rebuild your immune system and emotional well-being if you are eating healthy foods, attending physical therapy as recommended, and basically addressing each accident-related issue as it arises. Many accident victims are fearful of driving again. This is something you can discuss with your spouse or close family member, or a licensed counselor, if needed.
Dealing with insurance agencies and other legal issues that often result following a motor vehicle collision can be highly stressful. This is another reason it’s a good idea to build a strong support network from the start, so you don’t have to handle accident-related matters on your own.