Auto accidents can be burdensome in more than one way. It’s likely you’ll need to figure out how to repair your vehicle or get a new one. You’ll also have to deal with insurance companies and complex policies. When you’ve been injured, no matter how severe, those burdens are amplified. It’s important to remember, however, that property damage and insurance policies can wait if you have physical injuries that need to be taken care of.
You’ll likely want to deal with everything at once after your crash in an attempt to move past the incident as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, physical injuries often take time to heal, and focusing on your recovery is paramount. Before returning to your normal schedule and work hours, you’ll want to ensure you are healed or at least at a place where you can work without injury yourself further. Let’s take a look at five of the ways you can maximize your recovery time after a vehicular collision.
1) Listen To Your Doctor
When it comes to treating your injuries, it’s important to take your doctor’s advice. They will be able to work with you to determine the best course of action to improve your health and wellbeing.
It’s normal to get frustrated at some points, especially if your recovery plateaus; however, it’s important to remember that your doctor has your best interests in mind and will be able to guide you towards recovery. One of the best ways to listen to your doctor is by only returning to work when they say you’re ready. You should also make sure you attend your scheduled appoints and take your prescribed medications.
2) Understand Your Injuries
If you don’t have a background in the medical field, it can be overwhelming to hear about and understand your injuries and the recommended course of treatment. No matter what questions you have, it’s important to be upfront with the medical professionals who are helping you.
Medical terms and medications can be confusing. Asking questions can help you understand what your body has been through and how you can best heal. There may be multiple ways to handle an injury. If you’re uncertain about how your doctor is handling yours, it’s never a bad idea to seek a second opinion.
3) Speak With Your Employer
Calling your employer after an accident can seem daunting. You may be worried your job will be in jeopardy if you need to miss a significant amount of time. As soon as you can, notify your employer of what has happened. After seeing a doctor and learning more about your injuries and how they can be treated, see if your employer is willing to work around your needs or if a temporary leave of absence can be arranged.
If you work for a company with at least 50 employees and have been there for at least 20 weeks, you qualify for up to 12 weeks of time off, as determined by the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). If your company does not meet that criteria, or if you’re a newer employee, talking with your employer is the best way to go.
It’s also a good idea to keep a record of any receipts related to your medical expenses, as your employer may want proof of your injury. Ask your boss about accident or injury leave days. Depending on your injuries, you may be able to work out a schedule that works for you and them. If your doctor says you cannot return to work at all, you’ll need to discuss that as well.
Keeping your boss in the loop is the best way to ensure your job is secure and you are granted the time you need to recover.
4) Don’t Rush Back Into Work
The worst thing you can do after your accident is to rush back into work. Not only can you harm yourself more physically by returning to work too soon, but you can also hurt your chances for a fair settlement. To receive full compensation for your medical expenses, you’ll need to show you followed your doctor’s advice and did not return to work until told to do so.
We understand how difficult it can be to try to recover physically while mentally burdened by your finances. The right lawyer can help ensure you’ll have the money to deal with your recovery and the time away from work.
5) Contact an Attorney
Dealing with the aftermath of a crash can be overwhelming, especially if you feel the accident was caused by the reckless, careless, or otherwise negligent actions of an individual, group, or corporation. If you’ve been injured in an auto collision in Pennsylvania, Shrager, Sachs, & Blanco is here to help. We have years of experience helping clients deal with all types of car accident claims. For more information on how our legal representation can assist you, schedule a free consultation today.
