No one wants to be in a motor vehicle accident, but large truck accidents are especially frightening. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), 124,000 truck accidents resulted in injuries in 2022. Many of these were very severe due to the huge size of semi-trucks and tractor-trailers.
The immediate steps to take after a car accident are meant to protect yourself and ensure you get medical treatment, but they don't always address what happens when you're discharged from the hospital and return to normal life. Today, we'll explore how to keep you and your family safe and thriving while you embark on your healing journey.
Follow Your Treatment Plans and Track Progress
Many victims of truck accidents suffer serious and life-changing injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or amputations, which will require long-term care.
Your doctor's orders are essential to ensuring a full recovery. Attend every follow-up visit and ask questions if you have concerns about certain treatments. You might want to have a loved one accompany you to these appointments so you both understand your treatment plan, particularly when to go to the emergency room if complications arise.
Another key factor is documenting your recovery. Keep track of your medical expenses and maintain a pain diary that explains what issues you're facing in everyday life. For example, if you have trouble walking up and down the stairs, make sure to note that in a pain diary.
You should also take pictures of how your injuries are healing. This can be invaluable for your care team, and it can also document the injuries if you choose to take legal action.
Explore Your Legal Options
A common misconception among truck accident victims is that if there are no criminal charges, they can't pursue legal action. However, a truck accident lawyer from a personal injury firm can help you secure a settlement from the trucking company.
In these cases, you are typically not suing the driver personally. Instead, you're suing their insurance company to seek money from the insurance policy.
An attorney can help you determine whether your case is strong enough to negotiate a settlement and explain your legal options, such as filing an insurance claim or a lawsuit. They will also help you gather strong evidence, including accident reports, Department of Transportation Records, medical records, and truck black box data. Through their networks of trusted experts, lawyers can secure expert testimony that supports your claim, such as from transportation officials or accident reconstruction specialists.
This can seem very overwhelming, especially when you're stressed and in pain. Don't worry, though; the lawyer typically handles all communication with the insurance company and the other parties to a lawsuit. You can ask your attorney for updates about your case, but you won't have to talk to the other parties. Instead, you can focus on recovery and regaining your sense of safety.
Stay Active
When someone is seriously injured, they may find it tempting to avoid physical activity because it's painful and uncomfortable. However, physical activity can accelerate healing, improve mobility, and help you regain a sense of control over your life.
A physical therapist can guide you through stretches and light activity to prevent muscle loss and joint stiffness. They'll also provide you with take-home exercises you can perform without any special equipment.
Water aerobics or swimming is also an invaluable way to heal after a truck accident, as it is gentle on the joints but still provides a good workout. Consider heading to your local YMCA or municipal pool for a few laps.
Seek Mental Health Support
Truck accidents are often traumatic, and many survivors suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. This may cause nightmares, panic attacks, depression, and fear of driving again.
Another aspect is the emotional toll that serious injuries can take. Navigating a newfound disability, or facing self-esteem challenges due to scars, can cause depression and a loss of enjoyment in everyday life.
You don't need to face these issues alone. A skilled and compassionate therapist can help you process your feelings, develop stronger coping skills, and rebuild your identity as an accident survivor.
Friends and family can also be an invaluable resource as you work to recover. Stay involved in your community, and don't be afraid to share how you're feeling with your loved ones.
Healing Is a Journey, Not a Destination
Everyone heals differently from a truck accident. While some recover quickly, others face physical and emotional challenges for years to come. Whatever timeline you are on is understandable, and all that matters is moving forward with confidence.
Legal, medical, and therapeutic support can be invaluable as you navigate these newfound challenges. Attorneys can help you explore your legal options, while doctors and physical therapists help you heal. Most importantly, being gentle with yourself and leaning on your support team will ensure you come back from this stronger than ever before.
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