Question: I was in a car accident recently. I was back home when a girl who used to go to my school veered over a double-yellow line and sideswiped a whole bunch of cars in succession (we think maybe she was texting). Mine was one of them, and because she caught the front corner just enough, she totalled the car.

I didn’t think getting over the accident would be such a big deal. But I’ve been dealing with headaches a lot since it happened, especially when I drink. I haven’t gotten a new car yet, though we got money from her insurance company–I don’t know whether to buy a cheap new car or a nicer used one. I just want my old car back, really. The whole thing upsets me, and I’m kind of afraid of being in cars now–I keep waiting for another car to hit me. I need some advice from the experts on all of these issues. How can I get back on track?

Answer:

It sounds like you have a lot on your plate, and it won’t be easy to fully recover from the accident that you were the victim of.

You should start by seeking medical help. Your health is the most important part of this equation, and the symptoms you describe could be a sign of a concussion. Only a doctor can give you medical advice, but here’s some advice to get you started: go to a doctor!

It’s upsetting that your hometown acquaintenace may have been texting at the time of the accident. Texting and driving is extremely dangerous, and some studies blame the practice for an incredible 1 in 4 car accidents. This accident sounds like it wasn’t your fault, so you may want to consider speaking to a lawyer, say the attorneys at Avrek, who know a thing or two about dispensing legal advice for car accidents. You shouldn’t accept legal advice from anyone but an attorney, but you won’t get the help you need unless you consult with one.

As for the car itself, well, that equation may change depending on what the lawyers tell you. But if safety is your number-one concern, and it sounds like it is, the car dealerships and pros we spoke to said that a newer car is generally a better choice. There are resources online to help you choose the safest cars available, and getting a new car will mean you’ll get a clean slate in terms of maintenance and upkeep needs that can make a difference in a car’s safety (and, of course, in its performance).

If a safe car isn’t enough to make you feel better about hitting the road in a vehicle, then you may want to speak to a mental health professional about your experience. It sounds as if you’re really struggling to get used to driving and riding in cars again, and that’s perfectly understandable. But you don’t want this incident to control your life, so consider taking advantage of your school’s mental health resources or seeing a professional off-campus.

“When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious thing it is to be alive–to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.” — Marcus Aurelius