When we suddenly find ourselves recovering from a crash, we have no idea what lies ahead for our future. Our lives drastically change in a matter of seconds and we will need time to recover. From one crash survivor to another, here are important tips that every survivor should be aware of when starting your recovery journey.
Here Are 15 Tips Every Survivor of a Collision Should Know:
- When you are a survivor of a collision, seek legal representation immediately. Although you may think that you may not have a case, it is so important that you speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer as there are strict deadlines in the legal system that you may not be aware of. Most lawyers offer free consultations with no obligations. Designate a family member to do this on your behalf.
- If and when your treating doctor at the trauma hospital discharges you, ask them for a medical note to send to your employer. You will already feel overwhelmed and even if the treating doctor can only give you a few days or a week recovery, this will allow you some recovery time before you have to follow up with your family doctor.
- Taking your time to recover is the first crucial step. Try your best to focus on “you” and ask your family members or friends for help. You need to heal first before you can attempt to try and do anything. Take it one day at a time.
- You should save all gas receipts, parking receipts and mileage accumulations that relate to your medical appointments from your collision. It is possible that you may be reimbursed through your insurance company and your lawyer may ask for them at some point if you have a case.
- If you have a case and you have hired legal representation, it is best that you stay off the phone. Colleagues and insurance companies may try to talk to you and your top priority should be “you”. Talking with people may lead to an already stressful situation. Alert your lawyer that you are receiving these calls. After all, your lawyer works for you.
- You may not be able to get yourself to an appointment. If you cannot get yourself to a medical appointment(s), make arrangements for a transportation company to take you. It is possible that your insurance company will cover these costs. Check with your lawyer if you are uncertain.
- Make sure to make a claim for any clothes or items that might have been damaged or lost due to your collision. Your insurance company may reimburse you for these losses.
- Start to organize all documents relating to your collision in a file folder or box. There could be plenty of paperwork especially if you are involved in a law suit and you will want them in a safe place.
- Start a journal. Keeping notes can be very therapeutic and you may forget as time goes on. Daily notes on how you are feeling can also be beneficial if you have a case.
- Keep track of all your appointments. If you are not able to do this, a family member will need to take on this task. Designate one calendar for just your appointments and place it in a safe place. You can also use your phone as your schedule which is another great option that offers “reminder” notifications.
- Please always be your own advocate during recovery. If something doesn’t feel right mentally or physically speak with a medical professional as soon as possible. You know your body better than anyone else.
- You may feel tired, don’t push yourself. If you are overwhelmed with too many visitors and need time alone, tell your family or friends how you are feeling. They may not understand but you need to look after yourself first.
- Seek out a support group in person or online. As a survivor of a collision, it is so important that you do not feel alone as you recover. There are online support groups that have been created specifically for injuries you may have sustained from your crash available through facebook. Try to stick to the groups that “ask you to join” as they are more private. I encourage you to join our online support group at: Crash Support Network Group.
- Always remember that everything can and will change after surviving a collision. Be kind to yourself. You are doing the best you can.
- Allow yourself time to adjust to your “new normal”. You will feel losses and you will feel limited. Just remember that it is not your fault.
Surviving a motor vehicle crash is devastating and can be life-changing. Always remember to be kind to yourself and take it one day at a time.
S. Dawne McKay is a survivor of a horrific crash that changed her life forever. Dawne shares her personal journey as a Crash Survivor Blogger and also collaborates with crash survivors as Guest Bloggers allowing them an opportunity to share their stories. Dawne is also the author of the book, “Talk Crash to Me – What to Expect After Surviving a Collision and How to Manage Your Recovery” which is available for purchase on Amazon.
