Coping with paralysis after a car accident

It’s the height tourist season in South Carolina right now, which means that you’re likely to encounter heavy traffic when traveling throughout the state, especially in the coastal regions. The more cars that are on the road at any given time, the greater risk there is for collision. When a car accident happens, the results can be devastating, especially if a fatality occurs. Surviving a crash doesn’t necessarily mean everything is okay; you might suffer serious injuries like broken bones, brain trauma or a spinal cord injury that causes paralysis.

The shock of being able to walk one day, then suddenly losing all mobility from the waist down or in your whole body, is one of the most difficult things a person can experience in life. If the car accident that caused your injuries was preventable and caused by another driver’s negligence, it merely intensifies the grief associated with your losses. Thankfully, there are many resources available to provide support as your family learns to cope with paralysis.

Coming to terms with permanent car accident injuries

You’ve probably heard it said that “knowledge is power.” Knowledge is certainly helpful when you’re suddenly faced with a debilitating injury. Many paralysis patients have found it therapeutic to ask questions and learn as much as they can about their injuries. Your medical team will no doubt be a tremendous support as you begin to understand more about your condition, including any tasks that you might still be able to perform without assistance.

Paralysis affects everyone in a family

Your loved ones will also need support as they come to terms with the fact that you are unable to stand or walk due to injuries that occurred in a car accident. Many South Carolina communities have support groups for family members who often become caretakers for their paralyzed loved ones. It’s not uncommon for feelings of fear, frustration or anger to arise as everyone learns to adapt to a new lifestyle. It may be helpful to gather as a family so that everyone has an opportunity to express their feelings. Then again, some people prefer to process their emotions in a quieter, more private way.

Seeking justice when another person’s negligence has caused a car accident

Depending on the type of spinal injury you have suffered, your condition may or may not be permanent. In any case, if someone’s careless or reckless behavior caused the accident, you’re entitled to seek restitution in a South Carolina civil court.