3 Possible Long-Term Effects of a Car Accident 

From the physical effects –– such as cuts and burns, to the emotional impact –– such as depression and anxiety –– car accidents can carry long-lasting consequences for victims. If you’ve been involved in a car accident in Texas, you’re likely facing extensive medical bills and property damage, which you shouldn’t have to pay if someone else is at fault for your injuries. If this is the case, reach out to a car accident lawyer in Houston, TX. They can seek justice to hold the other party liable and fight for you to receive financial compensation to cover damages. 

Physical Effects of Car Crashes

No matter the severity of the collision, drivers and passengers are likely to suffer from some sort of physical injury. Even if your injuries are only minor, you should still seek medical attention as it could be a sign of a more severe condition. Additionally, doctors can diagnose any internal injuries you sustained. Some of the most common physical effects of car accidents include: 

• Cuts: Victims can suffer cuts from sharp metal, broken glass, or flying debris. If they do not adequately treat the cut, it can become infected. 

• Burns: Ruptured fuel lines may burn victims, especially if they’re trapped in the vehicle. They may also suffer thermal burns if they contact hot parts of the car or friction burns from being dragged on the road. 

• Fractures and broken bones: Your body is thrown around during a car crash, and the sudden movement can easily lead to fracturing or breaking your wrist, leg, ankle, arm, or leg. 

A more severe physical effect can even be deadly. In fact, the National Safety Council estimates that nearly 38,800 people died in car crashes in 2019. 

Long-term Emotional Effects of Car Crashes

Some injuries manifest as severe psychological or emotional trauma. It’s common for accident victims to have high stress levels, and they must take signs of emotional distress seriously, which may mean seeking professional help. Common emotional effects following a car accident are: 

• Anxiety: Millions of people suffer from anxiety, and it can be brought on by a traumatic event, such as a car crash. Other disorders fall under anxiety, such as panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, separation anxiety, and other phobias. 

• Depression: This is one of the most common emotional effects following a car crash. Overwhelming sadness and loss of interest in daily activities are symptoms, and depression can be brought on by a passenger’s death or personal injury. 
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): People develop PTSD after a severe accident, witnessing injury or death, or a life-threatening event. This can lead to victims’ inability to maintain healthy relationships with family or friends or refusal to go in a car. 

Victims may also experience personality or behavioral changes leading to lashing out at family members. 

What are the Financial Effects of Car Crashes?

Car accidents can cost victims thousands of dollars in medical bills and property damage. Ongoing medical appointments, car repairs, and adjustments to homes can quickly add up. 

• Property damage: Car accidents can cause severe property damage, resulting in thousands of dollars in repairs. Drivers may also have to rent a car while theirs is in the shop. In some cases, the victim may have to buy a new car.

• Medical bills: Doctor’s appointments, surgeries, and physical therapy can add up to thousands. 
• Living adjustments: Accident victims may have to make renovations to their home to accommodate their injuries, including a wheelchair ramp or bathroom renovations. 

In addition to large bills, victims may lose out on income because of their injuries, putting them in a bad financial situation. 

Skilled Car Accident Lawyers Who Will Fight for You 

After being in a Texas car accident, reach out to experienced attorneys at Sutliff & Stout. We believe that every individual is entitled to the highest level of legal representation. Our lawyers are Board Certified in Personal Injury Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization. They will work tirelessly to secure compensation for your injuries, property damage, emotional trauma, and other losses you’ve endured.  

To speak with a knowledgeable attorney, call (713) 987-7111 or complete a contact form today.