Recovering from a serious car accident can be a very long and tedious process, yet it simply can’t be rushed. Carrollton car accident lawyers can help you maximize your financial recovery to pay for medical bills, yet the physical recovery you may need can be grueling, to say the least.
Some injuries are severe enough that they require weeks or even months to heal completely, and it’s possible that an even longer period of time might be necessary if you were involved in a catastrophic accident. For some of our clients, injuries may persist for years or even a lifetime.
No matter where you’re at in the recovery process, you can help yourself by following some simple guidelines outlined by medical professionals experienced in car accident injuries. By remembering these simple steps, you can put yourself on the right path to recovery.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
There are a great many cases where injuries resulting from a serious auto accident are not immediately visible. This is especially true of injuries that occur in the area around the head, neck, or spine. For example, it’s not uncommon for symptoms associated with a concussion or whiplash to appear days or even weeks after the accident has occurred.
This is precisely why you should seek immediate treatment after being involved in an accident. The longer you wait, the greater the likelihood that your injuries will worsen and that you will have a longer recovery period. Injuries like a herniated spinal disc or whiplash can cause chronic pain, which could persist years after the accident if these are left untreated.
Suppose you don’t receive medical attention immediately for an injury like internal bleeding or a concussion. In that case, it could quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation or brain damage.
Even when you don’t feel any significant pain in the aftermath of a car accident, you should immediately seek medical care if experiencing pain so that your doctor can thoroughly examine you and determine the true extent of any injuries. It will be a simple matter for your doctor to run imaging tests that can identify any soft tissue damage, fractures, swelling, or internal bleeding.
Consider Seeing an Auto Injury Doctor
In many cases, your primary care physician may not be the most appropriate medical professional to see when you’ve been involved in an auto accident. Many primary care physicians aren’t as experienced in identifying or treating more severe auto accident injuries. In this case, ask for a referral to a specialist. Your long-term health may benefit from seeking care from an auto injury specialist with this kind of niche training and experience.
If you don’t have a primary care physician, our Carrollton car accident lawyers can refer you to local doctors who are experienced in treating your injuries.
Follow Your Treatment Plan Closely
Even though your doctor-recommended treatment plan can be long and tedious, it will still be the best course of action for you to follow. This will not only ensure the quickest recovery possible but will also be essential in the event that you decide to seek compensation from the parties responsible for the accident.
Most doctors will prescribe a treatment plan which includes some or all of the following features:
- performing exercises recommended by a therapist in the home setting to reinforce your in-office treatment
- taking medications prescribed by your auto injury doctor
- staying away from work or exercise and reducing your daily activities so that your body can have adequate time to heal itself
- participating in on-site physical therapy sessions recommended by your doctor
- establishing regular follow-up appointments with your physician so your progress can be checked and any additional problems that may develop can be identified.
At some point, you may feel that there are some components of your treatment plan that simply aren’t achieving results or working with your lifestyle. In that case, you should be sure not to drop them from the program arbitrarily. Instead, you should at least discuss them with your physician before making changes. It may be that an alternative treatment can be used which is just as effective and more to your liking.
Get Sufficient Rest
One significant component of the recovery process is getting adequate rest each day. While you’re sleeping, there is an increased blood flow to all your tissues and muscles. This is when any repair or growth activities typically occur. Stress hormones are also reduced while you’re sleeping, which can help lower the level of inflammation throughout your body.
It’s simply a good idea to slow down and get lots of rest following a significant accident so that your body has time to heal itself. You’ll also notice that a good night’s sleep will increase your energy level for the next day and improve your alertness and mood.
Don’t make the mistake of being too aggressive or overzealous with your treatment. This could cause you to actually prolong your injuries and delay the recovery process.
Eat and Drink, and Exercise (When it's Safe)
Following a nutritious diet can speed up your recovery. Your body needs plenty of vitamins and protein to repair any damage that has been done. Staying hydrated can also help your body:
- regulate body temperature
- lubricate joints
- fight off infections
- keep organs functioning properly
Whenever you’ve been involved in a serious auto accident, it’s crucial for you to stretch your muscles and exercise once your physician gives you the green light. This will help you regain range of motion and flexibility, and it will also help prevent your muscles from deteriorating. Be sure to consult with your doctor to find out the most valuable exercises you can do at home, as well as which ones are safe for your body in its present condition.
Be careful not to push yourself too hard, even if you feel you’re up to it. Going too fast can result in a setback that delays your recovery. Some recommended activities could include light stretching routines, like yoga or tai chi, which are gentle on your body while still achieving excellent results for improved flexibility and range of motion.
Don't Neglect Your Mental Health: Establish a Good Support Network
Despite your best intentions, there will undoubtedly be some times when you get a little depressed or despondent over the progress you’re making. This is when it’s important to have a network of friends and family who can help support you during the recovery process. Your mood can be lifted, and your spirits can be sustained, when you have these individuals urging you onward and keeping you motivated.
In some cases, these trusted people can also help fill in the gaps when it comes to performing any necessary daily activities. They may also be able to assist with transportation to help you keep your appointments.
It might even be to your advantage to seek advice from a professional counselor. It’s not uncommon for victims of car accidents to experience significant emotional challenges in the aftermath. Remember, you don’t have to go through this alone. There will always be someone willing to help and provide emotional or spiritual support.
Consider the Financial Ramifications of Your Recovery: Contact Carrollton Car Accident Lawyers
In the wake of a serious car accident, you quickly feel the pinch financially. Not only are you likely left with car payments for a vehicle you can no longer use, but you’re also dealing with the significant expense of ongoing medical care.
Understand that there are solutions. Experienced Carrollton car accident lawyers can help you determine whether you’re entitled to compensation as a result of the accident. They will be able to guide you through the process from start to finish and help you get the money you need and deserve to facilitate the smoothest recovery possible.
Looking out for your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing by following your doctor’s orders, seeking support, and talking to a car accident lawyer will place you on the road to recovery following a car accident.
