According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there are more than six million car accidents in the United States every year. Yet, as common as they are, getting into your first fender-bender can be terrifying. This resourceful guide will show you how to recover from your first car accident. It’s okay to be scared after undergoing a traumatic event.
Take Care of Your Body
While news media reports emphasize crash fatalities, many people are severely injured in car accidents every day. The injuries can cause permanent disability and long-lasting aches and pains. Whether you’re seriously hurt or just a little achy, please take care of your body after your first car accident. Visit a physician immediately after the collision so they can thoroughly assess your condition. Your doctor will be able to spot issues you haven’t detected on your own. Some pain doesn’t appear until the following day after the crash. It’s also essential that you follow any advice your physician gives you. Discuss pain medications and side effects with your physician, and determine whether prescribed medications are necessary. Attending prescribed physical therapy is also important to determine limited function and pain related to body motion; and progress to reduce or eliminate pain and improve strength and functional abilities. You can also take matters into your own hands by getting massages after the accident. There are so many benefits of massage therapy, including stress relief and pain management. Remember to listen to your body and be careful not to push yourself beyond your limits before you’re ready. Some massage therapists also work with physical therapists, or work closely with physical therapist’s recommendations.
Get Back Behind the Wheel
It’s completely normal to be afraid of driving after getting into a collision. Yet, the best way to conquer your fears is to get back behind the wheel. The longer you wait to drive, the more scared you’ll be. Start off slowly if you need to. Take a few quick trips around the block with someone in the passenger seat. There’s no need to go cruising on the highway the day after your fender-bender. Be patient with yourself, and take it one step at a time. Try your best to limit distractions during these beginning phases. Don’t listen to the radio, and stay focused on the road. Soon enough, you should be comfortable in your vehicle as you were before the accident.
Reach Out for Support
Anyone wondering how to recover from their first car accident should reach out for support when needed. Whether you were in a tiny fender-bender or a severe collision, it’s okay to not be okay. Getting into an accident is a traumatic event for anyone. Let your friends and family know if you’re struggling. Also, inform them if there’s anything they can do to help. You can also consider going to therapy or attending a car accident support group. It might be helpful to hear about similar experiences that others have had so you learn how they recovered from the incident.
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