How Long Should You Rest After a Car Accident?

September 16, 2024

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A common question asked after surviving a crash is, “How long should you rest after a car accident?” A vigilant recovery process post-accident will help you heal both physically and mentally from the trauma you’ve suffered.

Understanding the importance of rest and how much time you should allow yourself to recover are key to getting back to your old self. However, every accident is different. We’ve provided some general guidelines below, but following the guidance and treatment plan of a medical professional will be your best path to recovery.

At Colling Gilbert Wright, we understand that no one is prepared for an injury. When you ask, “How long should you rest after a car accident?” you’re actually asking when you’ll be able to get back to work and how long this event will impact your life.

Though we may not have those answers, we can help ensure you are pursuing the compensation you need to make it through this with the least amount of financial impact possible. Call (407) 712-7300 today to schedule a FREE case evaluation. We are proud to serve our neighbors in Orlando and throughout Florida.

Should You Rest After a Car Crash?

Should you rest after a crash? Yes. Rest is essential after an accident, even if you don’t feel immediate pain. How long should you rest after a car accident? Well, that’s a more difficult question to answer.

During a car crash, your body endures a great deal of stress, and sometimes, the adrenaline can mask your injuries. Resting gives your body the chance to process the trauma it has experienced, reveal any additional injuries, and start the healing process.

How Long Should You Wait To Sleep After a Car Accident?

One of the biggest concerns after a crash is a concussion or head injury. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can be both serious and difficult to diagnose. That’s why it is critical to assess a possible brain injury carefully.

If you or someone else involved in the accident experiences any of the following, seek medical attention immediately:

Blow to the head
Headache
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue
Ringing in ears

That being said, there is no exact amount of time you should wait to sleep after a car crash. You simply should not sleep until a doctor evaluates your condition. Once a medical professional has determined that you do not have a serious head injury, you should get plenty of sleep and rest to aid in your recovery.

How Long Does It Take To Heal After a Car Accident?

Every accident is different. The length of time your body will need to recover from your injuries will depend very much on the specifics of your accident and your general health pre-crash.

Some people might feel better within a week or two if their injuries were minor. Whereas other people may need several months of rehabilitation. Injuries that can take longer to heal include:

Soft tissue injuries
Whiplash
TBIs
Spinal cord injuries
Severe burns

The medical expenses involved in more severe injuries can overwhelm you financially at a time when you need to rest and recover. Consulting a car accident attorney to make sure you are pursuing every opportunity for compensation is recommended. They can evaluate your claim and seek appropriate damages while you focus your energy on healing.

Do You Feel Worse the Day After a Car Accident?

Yes, it is common to feel quite a bit worse the day after a car crash. The body is in shock immediately after an accident. The trauma and adrenaline may conceal injuries.

As the initial shock fades, you may begin to feel stiff, sore, and in pain. Don’t ever dismiss the possibility of injuries surfacing later. At the very least, visiting with your primary care physician is highly recommended.

How Long Is Your Body in Shock After a Car Accident?

Your body can remain in shock for hours to days after a crash. It simply depends on the severity of the accident, your emotional state, and the injuries you’ve suffered.

Symptoms of shock can include:

Confusion
Nausea
Dizziness
Fainting
Rapid heartbeat
Rapid breathing
Blue tint to nails or lips
Dilated pupils
Cool, clammy, pale, or ashen skin

Seeking medical care can help determine if the shock is concealing any hidden injuries.

What Are Delayed Symptoms After a Car Accident?

Some car accident injury symptoms won’t appear right away. Depending on the injury, these delayed symptoms can range from mild to serious:

Headaches could be a symptom of whiplash, a concussion, or other head injuries.
Neck & Shoulder Pain are often symptoms of whiplash, another injury that can worsen if not treated.
Back Pain could be due to a herniated disc or muscle strain.
Numbness & Tingling could be signs of nerve damage, which can occur from spinal injuries, herniated discs, or other forms of trauma to the nervous system.

If you notice any of these symptoms after a crash, immediately consult a doctor. They can create a treatment plan to help minimize your discomfort and long-term issues.

How Can I Help My Body Recover From a Car Accident?

It isn’t just about “How long should you rest after a car accident?” It’s about doing everything it takes to support your body as it mends. Your health is your priority, after all.

When you are suddenly in pain and miserable, the path to recovery can seem impossible. It’s important to remember that healing is a process. Your body needs time, care, and attention to heal—but it will.

As every accident is unique, so is each individual’s injury and recovery. However, there are several ways to support your body as you are restored to health:

Rest!
Follow your doctor’s treatment plan.
Inform your doctor of any new symptoms or changes.
Keep hydrated, and eat well.
Stay active, but don’t overdo it.
Don’t forget to take care of your mental health care.

Healing is not a race. We only have one body, so listen to it, support it, and give it the care it needs.

Contact Colling Gilbert Wright for Help with Your Claim

Asking “How long should you rest after a car accident?” means you care about your health and want to get better. We understand how scary it is to be in pain and how overwhelming recovery can be. All of that frustration is only compounded when your suffering is the result of someone else’s negligence.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, the Orlando car accident attorneys at Colling Gilbert Wright are here. And we’ll walk with you every step of the way in pursuit of the compensation you deserve.