• More than 32,000 people in the United States are killed in auto accidents every year.
• Over two million people suffer severe traumatic injuries every year from motor vehicle collisions.
• In 2013, the rate of car accidents in the United States was higher than twice the average of other developed nations.
• The use of seat belts in the United States is significantly lower when compared to other developed countries.
• About a third of all accidents in the United States involve alcohol intoxication.

These numbers are alarming and show that there is still progress that can be made. For the two million people who are injured in car accidents every year, the healing process can take many forms.

There are countless traumatic injuries that someone could sustain in a motor vehicle collision. Some of the most common injuries include:

• Bruises, scrapes, and lacerations
• Broken bones such as femur fractures, wrist fractures, and ankle fractures
• Contusions to internal organs such as abdominal trauma
• Traumatic brain injuries

Anyone who suffers injuries in a motor vehicle accident needs to seek medical care. The treatment of any of these injuries could take many forms. These include:

• Rest: Minor injuries will heal over time by resting the injured body part. Lacerations, scrapes, and bruises often heal on their own.
• Medications: Pain medication might be needed for more severe injuries. Tylenol and Motrin can help relieve minor discomfort, inflammation, and swelling. For serious injuries, narcotic medications might be required. Antibiotics could also be used to treat or prevent infections.
• Surgery: Serious injuries could require surgery. Displaced bone fractures might require the attention of an orthopedic surgeon to reset the bones. Those who sustain severe traumatic brain injuries might need the emergency help of a neurosurgeon.

Over time, most injuries will heal. Some individuals may need to visit a medical specialist to receive expert care. While some injuries could heal in days, others might take weeks, months, or even years. During this time, a comprehensive treatment approach is needed.

In addition to physical injuries, it is essential for individuals not to neglect the emotional trauma of a traumatic accident. Some people might even suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Some of the signs of emotional distress include:

• Difficulty sleeping at night
• Flashbacks to the event itself
• Periods of sweating, rapid breathing, and a fast heart rate
• Anxiety that could be worsened by getting back into a motor vehicle
• Emotional lability with rapid mood swings

Anyone with these symptoms should seek counseling from mental health professionals. There are numerous treatment options that these trained professionals can provide.

Watch YouTube Video: Signs of Emotional Distress. This video discusses how those who are around people with emotional distress can be supportive.

Meeting with mental health professionals such as therapists, counselors, and psychiatrists can be of great benefit. Getting counseling does not mean that individuals are going to have to take medications even though in some situations this can be of great help. Specialized therapy sessions can help individuals explore the root of their trauma, overcome their fears and anxieties, and make changes in their life that can help expedite their recovery. Anyone who has symptoms of PTSD, depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder should reach out to a trained mental health professional. They can provide invaluable assistance during the recovery process.

Following a serious car accident that leads to injuries, the healing process needs to focus on the entire person. While the physical injuries often heal with medical care and time, some of the emotional and mental scars from traumatic accidents are often overlooked. For this reason, it is important for everyone to reach out to an injury attorney. A car accident lawyer in Sacramento can help families work through this tough situation. Your family might be owed a significant financial sum.

I’m Ed Smith, a car accident lawyer in Sacramento. The healing process after a motor vehicle collision involves physical injuries, emotional distress, and mental health. If your loved one has struggled in any way after a serious car accident, feel free to call me today at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly legal advice.

We are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the National Association of Distinguished Counsel.

See our case history of verdicts and settlements and our client reviews on Google, Yelp, and Avvo.

Editor’s Note: This page has been updated for accuracy and relevancy [cha 11.5.20]

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