A Car Accident can happen in seconds, but recovery times can be slow for some people. It all depends on the nature of the accident, type of injuries, the victim’s physical health, and other factors. Although everyone reacts and heals differently, there are some general guidelines that can help a victim understand the healing process.
Should I Always Get a Medical Evaluation?
The best way to determine how long the soreness will last is to be evaluated by a physician. A complete medical history, diagnostic tests, like X-rays and a physical exam, will help the doctor determine the extent of the injuries and recovery time.
It is not uncommon for injuries to show up after some time has passed following a car accident, so getting checked over as soon as possible is essential.
What is the Average Recovery Time After an Accident?
On average, the recovery time after a car accident is about six weeks. Many will feel better even sooner, but others can end up with long-term pain and suffering.
Critical injuries, like severe burns, brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and back or neck injuries, can all require lengthy recovery times. Cuts, bruises, and broken bones generally heal faster, but should be monitored by a medical professional in case there are complications, like infections.
What Causes More Severe Injuries?
Most drivers know how important it is to wear a seat belt. All drivers and passengers are legally required to wear seat belts, and seat belts reduce the risk of moderate to serious injuries by almost 50 percent.
Airbags offer more protection, but when they engage during accidents, they can injure drivers and passengers. High-speed auto crashes usually cause worse injuries than low-speed crashes due to increased gravitational force.
Elderly car accident victims often take longer to heal, especially if they are not in good physical shape. Another risk factor is having a pre-existing injury that is aggravated by the accident; this should be discussed with the physician during the evaluation.
What Affects Recovery Time?
Recovering accident victims who are under a lot of stress can experience more pain and slower healing times.
If the victim returns to work too soon, this can prolong the pain and suffering. It is always best to follow the doctor’s advice, which often includes rest, taking medications, going to physical therapy, and follow-up appointments. Doctors may also advise patients to stay hydrated, eat healthy, and call the office with any concerns.
When Should I Call My Doctor?
Some pain is expected after a car accident, but it is not always easy to recognize when it is serious enough to reach out to a physician. A stabbing pain that comes on suddenly is concering, particularly if it is in the back. In some cases, it could be a spinal cord injury that was not obvious immediately after the accident.
Aching pains are not as sharp, and they are generally regulated to one area of the body. This could be a strained ligament or muscle, which can be treated with anti-inflammatories, like ibuprofen.
Radiating pain is different. Neck and back injuries can lead to radiating pain, which can extend down to the legs or arms. This can be a serious health issue if radiating pain is not treated.
After one seeks medical attention, it is important to hire a car accident lawyer. Medical expenses are often costly, and a lawyer will help one obtain compensation.
Washington, D.C. Car Accident Lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King Help Injured Car Accident Victims Get Compensation for Recovery
It takes a lot of patience to fully recover from a car accident, but this should not prevent you from getting the damages you are entitled to. Our Washington, D.C. car accident lawyers at the Law Offices of Duane O. King help car wreck victims get the justice and compensation that they deserve. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 202-331-1963. Located in Washington, D.C., we serve clients throughout 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, and Seat Pleasant, Clinton, Oxon Hill, Temple Hills, and Fort Washington.
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