Although the initial trauma of a car accident can be difficult to handle, many crash survivors do not fully grasp how difficult the next few years will be. Some may never truly be the same, and many face long, uphill roads to recovery. As difficult as it might seem to think about the future after a serious crash, you should be realistic about how life-changing your crash might be. Once you understand the economic and non-economic costs you will have to bear, it may be easier to pursue fair, accurate compensation. You can do this alongside an experienced auto accident lawyer in Virginia.
When are Car Accident Injuries Silent and Invisible?
Even the most severe car accident injuries can be silent and invisible. One clear example is a traumatic brain injury, which can be completely life-changing despite very few external signs. Brain injuries can cause memory loss, making it impossible for victims to remember the details of their accidents. This may make it challenging for victims to access the medical care they need, and they may wake up after their crashes with no memory of what happened.
This may cause them to miss out on crucial medical care. Treatment and testing are particularly important for patients with intracranial hemorrhage. Also known as “brain bleeds,” these injuries may not cause any pain for car accident victims, and they may continue with their lives as if nothing happened. However, mounting pressure from internal bleeding can eventually cause fatal consequences.
Psychological Trauma Can Also Be Silent and Invisible
Other “silent injuries” are psychological in nature. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is common for victims of car crashes, and this legitimate psychological disorder may last for months or years. Patients might need to accept mental health treatment from psychologists and counselors to help them overcome their PTSD.
The symptoms of PTSD are often impossible to detect from the outside. Patients may experience sudden flashbacks, persistent nightmares, depression, social withdrawal, anger issues, and avoidant behavior. Specifically, PTSD patients may avoid driving or even walking near roads due to the painful memories of their crashes. This can cause issues with personal relationships, careers, and many other aspects of life.
The Effects of Disfigurement Can Be Life-Altering
Disfiguring injuries may also be life-altering, both physically and psychologically. This is a relatively common issue for car accident victims, and disfigurements can occur in various ways. For example, a vehicle might burst into flames or explode after a collision, causing disfiguring burns for occupants. While first responders are usually very quick to respond to crashes, they may pull victims out of wrecks too late to avoid severe burns across the body.
Disfigurements may also include deep lacerations and cuts caused by car accidents. Shards of glass and pieces of metal can all slice through vehicle occupants during crashes, eventually leading to permanent scarring. Although some lacerations may heal without much of a trace, others become unsightly blemishes.
Some might also categorize amputations as disfigurements. People may lose limbs and body parts in many ways during car accidents. Not only do amputations typically lead to permanent disabilities, but they may also be very difficult to process from a psychological standpoint. Examples include amputated arms, legs, and fingers. Even if a victim walks away from a crash with all of their limbs, crush injuries can lead to “compartment syndrome,” leaving doctors with no choice but to amputate.
Facial scars and burns can be particularly challenging from a mental health perspective. Although these injuries might be plainly visible, victims often suffer in silence. They may notice that it is difficult to form relationships or advance in their careers. They might also develop legitimate psychological disorders due to their loss of self-esteem.
The Importance of Rehabilitation After Car Accidents
Rehabilitation plays a key role when addressing the aftereffects of car accidents. Physical rehabilitation may involve strengthening exercises, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and much more. In the case of severe brain injuries, patients may need to relearn basic life skills like walking, speaking, dressing, cleaning, and eating. Access to rehab is crucial for those who want to heal as much as possible.
Psychological rehabilitation may also be helpful for those suffering from the silent, invisible effects of PTSD, disfigurement, and other disorders. Mental health professionals should tailor this treatment to meet the individual needs of each patient. With the right approach, patients can regain confidence, confront their fears, and heal from trauma.
How Does a Car Accident Lawyer Help With These Aftereffects?
A car accident lawyer can help patients access effective treatment. An injury claim may lead to a settlement or verdict that provides enough financial support to access the best medical treatment available. This might include experimental or alternative treatment for brain injury patients, such as music therapy.
An injury claim can also provide compensation for lost income, allowing victims to take as much time as they need to heal before returning to work. This often provides patients with valuable “breathing room” to consider treatment options and legal steps without worrying about financial pressures. Note that some victims may never return to work due to permanent disabilities. In this situation, victims should work with their lawyers to pursue as much compensation as possible for a lifetime of lost wages.
A successful injury claim also covers non-economic damages. This legal phrase represents emotional or psychological losses victims are forced to endure due to car accidents. Examples include pain & suffering, emotional distress, depression, PTSD, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, and humiliation. Victims can pursue additional compensation for these damages, perhaps using the funds to cover mental health treatment.
Get Help From The Law Offices of Paul A. Samakow, P.C.
The aftereffects of a car accident may be challenging, but there is no need to approach these challenges alone. With help from an experienced auto accident lawyer in Maryland or Virginia, it may be easier to pay your medical bills, cover your lost income, and achieve a sense of closure. Even after your physical injuries heal, the psychological effects of your crash could last for the rest of your life. Speak with The Law Offices of Paul A. Samakow, P.C., to learn more about your rights as a car crash survivor.
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