Navigating the Aftermath of Car Accidents

Life can change in an instant. One moment, you’re cruising down the highway with the radio up, the next—metallic screeches, shattered glass, and the chaos of a motor vehicle accident. It’s an experience that can leave a lasting impact, both physically and emotionally. But amidst the turmoil, there’s resilience, recovery, and lessons to be learned.

Surviving the Shock

The moments after an accident feel surreal. The mind races, processing the impact, the damage, and the inevitable flood of adrenaline. It’s in this moment that clarity is crucial. First, check for injuries, both for yourself and others involved. Then, if safe, move to the side of the road and call emergency services. Documentation—photos, witness accounts, and police reports—becomes your ally in sorting out insurance claims and liability.

Moving forward

Even if you don't feel like you have any injuries, please go get checked out immediately. Adrenaline is a powerful thing and can mask pain. You aren't just looking for broken bones, or bruises. Motor vehicle accidents are the leading cause of traumatic brain injuries including concussions. Around 15-30% of people who suffer a concussion in an MVA experience persistent post-concussive symptoms lasting weeks or months.

Don't try to do it alone

There is a long list of "to dos", including repairing a vehicle, healing from injuries, insurance companies to talk to, and lost wages to deal with. The majority of people think they have to maneuver this winding road alone. The insurance companies are trained to give you a settlement as quickly as possible and to offer what they believe to cover the damage. Some insurance companies are trained to act quickly and give as little as possible. Even if you think you will be delt fairly, there are resources to help you through the process.

An Attorney?

Yep, you heard correctly. The dust has settled from the accident, you have been checked out by a physician, now its time to call an attorney. Attorneys negotiate on your behalf with the adjuster making sure you receive fair compensation to take care of your injuries and losses. They make sure you are meeting Legal deadlines, help you prove liability, and can arrange treatment through a medical lien where the provider agrees to be paid out of your settlement. The word advocate is a way to describe what they do. Attorneys will advocate for you. They work with Physicians, Chiropractors, Physical Therapists, Spine specialists, Neurologist and more to make sure you are taken care of. What about the cost? Consultations are free, so no money out just doing research, then once you decide to hire an attorney they work on a contingency fee. Which means they only get paid when you get paid.

FACTS

Annually, there are over 6 million passenger car accidents. The U.S. Department of Transportation estimates the annual economic cost of crashes to be $340 Billion. We all hope we never need to deal with a motor vehicle accident, here is hoping you don't. But if you are one of the unlucky 6 million just know you don't have to take the road to recovery alone.