By Larry Weisberg on April 26th, 2018
Not only is a car accident an incredibly stressful event, but there are short- and long-term effects of car accidents that can be physically debilitating as well. You could be dealing with the ramifications for a long time. That’s why it’s so important to get in touch with an attorney so you make sure your rights are protected.
Physical Effects of Car Accidents
One of the most common car accident injury effects is whiplash, which is caused by a sudden movement of the neck. But there are many other types of injuries that take place as well, including relatively minor sprains and strains as well as devastating, potentially permanent injuries such as brain trauma and paralysis. The effects of car accidents on the brain can be especially severe, leading to problems with memory, coordination and much more.
If you suffer any sort of injury in a car accident, you need to get medical help as soon as you can — even if it’s a minor injury. It can take weeks or even months for symptoms associated with an injury such as whiplash, for instance, to start showing themselves. If you wait too long to see a doctor and your case goes to court, the opposition could argue that something other than the accident caused your injury.
Emotional Effects of Car Accidents
The risk for emotional damage after a car accident is just as high as physical damage. Many people develop persistent problems, such as anxiety, that can affect work and personal relationships for years. Those who suffer from this issue can find it very difficult to handle certain situations associated with driving and have continual dreams and thoughts about the accident. Other emotional effects of car accidents can include appetite loss, crying, mood swings and trouble sleeping.
Psychological Effects of Car Accidents
One of the more serious psychological effects of car accidents that many people are not aware of is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. You might associate this problem with warfare, but car accidents are among the leading causes of PTSD cases around the world.
PTSD can develop after any sort of traumatic experience. It can have a devastating impact on a person’s ability to function normally in any sort of setting, whether it is at home, among friends or anything else. People who go through this will typically show a wide range of symptoms, including anger, fear, shock, nervousness and feelings of mistrust or guilt. While just about everyone has these feelings at one time or another, they don’t go away for someone with PTSD. The problem can get so bad that it interferes with everyday life, causing nightmares and flashbacks on a continual basis.
Talking to a Lawyer About Post-Accident Injuries
Whether you or a loved one has suffered physical, emotional or psychological effects from a car accident, it’s extremely important to speak with an attorney as soon as you can. While you obviously need to concentrate on recovering from the trauma you’ve gone through, you can’t ignore the legal ramifications of the accident.
For example, you might have a hard time obtaining compensation from an insurance company, or the other party involved in the accident might decide to take you to court. You could also decide that you want to sue the other driver who you feel caused the wreck. If you are going through any of these scenarios, you need to hire a lawyer as soon as you can.
At Weisberg Cummings, P.C., we are ready to help if you or a loved one has suffered any sort of injury in an automotive accident. We can provide the representation you need if you are suffering any of the long-term effects of car accidents, whether they are physical, emotional or psychological. Please contact us online or give us a call at 717-260-3854 for a consultation.