If you’ve experienced a personal injury, you’re no stranger to the pain and overwhelm that can occur. There are so many far-reaching impacts of an accident or incident that you might feel lost and confused, unsure of what you need to do about the ever-unfolding consequences.
The following will explore some of the more typical ways a personal injury can affect your life and what options are available to help deal with these impacts. Of course, every injury is slightly different, as are each person’s obligations and needs. If something you’re experiencing isn’t on this list, that doesn’t mean your sensations or issues are not validated or important. Speak to a legal professional for further information about how the specifics of your injury can be approached within the context of your life.
Physical Pain of a Personal Injury
Of course, one of the first things that come to mind is the physical experience of having an injury. This could involve both short and long-term pain or the pains of rehabilitation stretches and movements.
Physical pain can also mean hospital bills. It can also mean medication that makes you feel less productive at work or less reactive in relationships. It might also mean not being able to work for a bit which results in financial challenges. You might be unable to perform tasks you could have easily done before, and this might influence your ability to meet obligations (caring for children or elderly relatives) or helping your partner out around the house. It might even require you to hire someone to come to your home and help you out.
Emotional Pain of a Personal Injury
Being in an accident does more than affect your physical wellbeing. It can alter your mental and emotional state and leave you feeling stressed, anxious, uncomfortable, or depressed.
Many people struggle with their sense of identity, feel shame or even guilt if they are suddenly unable to handle the things they previously did or if they’re not contributing what they feel is their share to household needs. Post-traumatic stress syndrome is also a common outcome of personal injury and can make it difficult to go about your day normally as you no longer feel safe in your standard environments. Car crashes are actually the number one source of PTSD in America. You might need to seek out a mental health professional, which can add to your struggles’ financial burden. Beyond this, dealing with insurance companies that don’t want to pay up or facing legal proceedings can be incredibly stressful.
Financial Difficulties
The above list contains many things that can make you feel financially insecure. For example, medical bills, medications, therapy, loss of work, and the need to hire help can quickly empty your bank account.
You might also need to get a new vehicle or get yours repaired. You might need to replace the clothing you were wearing or other personal effects like your phone or watch or glasses depending on the type of accident that happened. You might be permanently injured and are all too aware of all the future income you’re going to lose out on as well. Calculating the financial cost of an injury can be daunting, but it’s a vital step in the process. An attorney can help you break down the math if you’re struggling. Many people have a hard time putting a number on things like pain and future income.
Seek Medical Attention
If you’ve been injured, you need medical attention. Not only does early intervention reduce the risk of permanent or long-term damage, but it also provides a medical history that can be invaluable when you’re pursuing any form of compensation. Be sure to follow the doctor’s recommendations as not following them can be seen by an insurance company or judge as your injuries not being as serious as you claim.
Stay Off Social Media
Yes, you’re upset, and you have a right to be. That doesn’t mean posting about it on social media is a good idea. Anything your post, like, share, comment on, or engage with can be used against you by the court or a judge. Unless otherwise directed by a lawyer, stay off social media entirely until the issue has been resolved.
Learn About All Your Options
Before you speak with your insurance company and before you file any claims, you want to research all your options. Often pursuing one route means you’re forgoing another route. Read about the difference between PIP and MedPay, so you make a good decision. If the accident was related to work, learn about what you can expect from Workers Compensation. If the options feel overwhelming at all, it is worth your while to meet with a lawyer. A legal professional can break down all your options given the specific context you are in and recommend a path based on this information. They can also direct you in your decision to help ensure that you get fair compensation for what you’ve experienced.
The above information should help you understand the potential impacts of a personal injury accident and the steps you need to take. If you are uncertain about any stage of the process, reach out to a legal professional.