A car accident is a scary situation. You’re put in sudden danger and are often left with a physical and mental injury, plus damage to your car. The time after a car accident is stressful, with so many things vying for your attention. Here are some tips to help you through life after a car accident.
1. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
If you are injured in an accident, you should get examined by a doctor. Even if your life isn’t in danger, a trip to the hospital is often necessary. Once your doctor has checked you for injuries, they will give you the necessary instructions. There are many car accidents, so doctors are experienced in managing those types of injuries. In fact, Montana alone had 2,307 car accidents in 2019. When your doctor tells you what to do afterward, make sure that you do it. Even if you don’t think it is necessary, you need to follow all of their instructions. That way, your injuries don’t have a lingering impact on your life.
2. Document Everything
Your doctors and your insurance company will need to know all the details of your accident in order to correctly manage their responsibilities in the aftermath. Make sure that you document everything, starting from the moment of the accident. You want to take photos and videos of the scene, as well as of any injuries you have. In the time after the accident, your memory will get less clear. Plus, some people will try to lie in order to get out of trouble if they’re responsible for the accident. If you have documentation of everything, then you can easily provide it whenever another party needs that information.
3. Keep On Top of Your Insurance
Sometimes, your insurance company won’t want to pay for everything you’re entitled to. Mistakes can also happen, where your case falls through the cracks. You don’t want to end up paying money you don’t need to pay. Keep on top of everything that is happening with your insurance. Make sure you get the necessary payouts and that your bills are covered. If someone at the insurance company tries to save money with some tricks they’re betting you won’t notice, you may end up responsible for large sums of money. By staying in contact with the insurance company, they’ll be less likely to misplace your case or try any tricks.
4. Talk to Someone You Trust
Car accidents are not something you necessarily get over quickly. They can be deadly. On average, 474 people die in car accidents in Oregon each year. It is perfectly understandable that you would be rattled after a car accident. Make sure that you have someone you can talk to about your feelings. It can be a friend or a loved one. If you have a trustworthy person to confide in, it can help you move on with your life.
5. Seek Professional Help
Sometimes your mental recovery won’t go smoothly. If it has been a little while and your accident is still having a major impact on your life, you may need to talk to a mental health professional. Trained crisis workers are generally available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Don’t be ashamed to talk to one of them when you need them. Many people deal with trauma in their lives and professional help can make an enormous difference.
Moving on with your life after a car accident can be difficult. If you’re unsure how to manage all of your responsibilities, both to yourself and others, follow these tips to make the process easier.
