Beyond Physical Scars: The Effects of Car Accidents on Children
It is easy to only think about physical injuries when considering the damage inflicted by car accidents. However, the effects of car accidents on children often extend far beyond physical scars—the most severe collisions can leave lasting psychological and emotional scars that hamper a child’s development.
If your child has been in a car accident, you need to understand the potential mental consequences to help them recover from their trauma. Let a Capitol Heights car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King tell you what you need to know.
How Do Car Accidents Affect Children Emotionally?
A car accident can deeply unsettle a child’s sense of security and cause them to exhibit increased anxiety, fear of riding in vehicles, or behavioral changes like withdrawal or irritability. To make things worse, younger children might struggle to articulate these feelings, which means that parents and guardians always need to observe and respond to subtle shifts in behavior. After all, your child’s emotional health can significantly impact their daily life and relationships.
Can Car Accidents Lead to Long-Term Psychological Effects?
The aftermath of collisions can present lasting psychological issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, and depression. Additionally, symptoms like nightmares, flashbacks, and intense emotional distress can manifest weeks or even months after the incident. Children who survive severe car accidents have a disproportionately higher risk of developing PTSD.
What Are Common Physical Injuries Children Sustain in Car Accidents?
Children commonly experience head injuries after serious car accidents, which can easily lead to concussions and traumatic brain injuries—these complications pose severe risks due to children’s ongoing brain growth and hamper their emotional and physical development. Other common injuries include fractures, cuts, and bruises.
How Does a Child’s Age Impact Their Reaction to a Car Accident?
Your child’s age directly influences their understanding and reaction to a car accident: Toddlers and younger children may regress in behavior, exhibit early signs of car-related PTSD, or deal with serious separation anxiety. Older children and teens might internalize their fears, leading to mood swings or social withdrawal. Recognizing your child’s age-specific responses can help you tailor the support and care your child receives.
What Factors Affect the Settlement of a Child’s Injury Claim?
If your child sustains injuries in a car accident, several factors can impact the settlement you receive if you decide to pursue legal options for compensation. The severity of the injury, the long-term prognosis, and the degree of the associated emotional trauma can all increase the value of your claim.
If you need to file for compensation, documentation from medical professionals, therapists, and counselors can help substantiate your story and help you demand the payout to cover your child’s treatment costs and future needs.
How Can You Support Your Child After a Car Accident?
Your child requires immediate medical attention following a serious car accident—but they also need emotional support. As their parent or guardian, you need to help them discuss the incident in an age-appropriate manner so they can process their emotions healthily.
Encourage your child to express feelings through conversation, play, or art therapy, and reach out to mental health professionals to effectively handle the emotional and psychological aftermath.
A Capitol Heights Car Accident Lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Will Help You
If your child was involved in a car accident and you need to pursue legal options, consult a Capitol Heights car accident lawyer at the Law Offices of Duane O. King. Call 202-331-1963 or fill out our online form for a free consultation. Our office locations in Washington, D.C., National Harbor, Maryland, and Falls Church, Virginia, allow us to serve clients in Prince George’s County, including Laurel, Beltsville, Adelphi, College Park, Greenbelt, Mitchellville, Woodmore, Greater Upper Marlboro, Springdale, Largo, Bowie, Capitol Heights, District Heights, Forestville, Suitland, Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.