Adapted from Task Force on Assistance to Families of Aviation Disasters
Until the U.S. Government deems trucking victims worthy of Care and Support http://www.dot.gov/affairs/tfafadappf.htm

Each person deals with serious injury or death of a loved one in his or her own way. However, victims and witnesses report some common reactions. The information below is intended to help you understand your potential responses to this tragedy. It is not designed to be a substitute for the role of professionals with expertise in trauma counseling.

· You may be overpowered with sadness, sorrow, and grief. These are common reactions, in fact normal reactions, to an incredibly abnormal event.

· You may be having trouble sleeping, and notice a loss in appetite and energy. These functions are likely to return to your usual level within a period of time.

· You may find yourself angry and outraged at the tragedy, those you believe caused the tragedy, people who can't understand what you have been through, or someone for "letting the tragedy happen."

· You may suffer waves of panic. Someone you love has been suddenly and violently killed or injured. You had no time to prepare psychologically, so you may experience high anxiety and feelings of terror and horror.

· You may spend hours trying to figure out what happened and become increasingly frustrated when you can't remember or can't obtain desired information.

· You may worry about what you could have done or should have done that might have prevented this tragedy, even though there was no way anyone could have known that this tragedy would happen.

· You may regret not having an opportunity to say goodbye to your loved one, or worry over feelings never expressed.

· It is not unusual to spend hours, days, or even months in emotional shock because of what has happened to you, your loved one, or others involved.

· Everyone copes with tragedy differently. But most people continue to face reminders of their trauma and endure traumatic reactions for weeks, months, and sometimes years. Reminders can be painful, and some may be unavoidable.

People find comfort and regain control of their lives in many different ways. You are unique in your response. What works for someone else may not work for you. The following are observations from others who have been injured or lost loved ones in disasters:

· Talk about what happened to a counselor, clergy member, friend, family member, or other survivors. It is common to want to share your experience over and over again -- and it is healthy for you to do so.

· Express your reactions through writing, talking, physical activity, whatever is helpful to you. It will help to assist and process your feelings of grieving and mourning.

· Begin to restore order in your world by reestablishing familiar routines as much as possible at home, work, or school.

· Sort out the most pressing problems and address them one at a time. Put off any major decisions that you can for as long as possible. It may be hard to make big decisions when you are dealing with so much.

· Seek information, advice, and help and rely on people you trust. Find out what will be expected of you in the days to come, so you can plan ahead for any new or stressful experiences.

· If there are surviving children, include them in your activities and plans. Involve them in funerals and memorials if they choose.

· Don't be afraid to ask questions. You may have concerns about the availability of resources, who will pay for your travel and other expenses, and other insurance and compensation issues.

· Organize and plan how you will respond to media inquiries. If it is helpful, include family, friends, or other victims or survivors in your planning process. You do not have to speak to the media. It is your decision how much, if any, involvement you have with the media. Any contact should be on your terms.

· If you think you need legal advice, seek the help of a reputable attorney. If necessary, you may want to contact a local legal association for a list of attorneys who specialize in wrongful death suits. Under Federal law, attorneys are prohibited from making unsolicited communications to you concerning potential actions for personal injury or wrongful death for 30 days after the disaster. Take adequate time to make decisions about insurance settlements, legal actions, and other matters that have long-term consequences.

· Remember that while most people are honest and trustworthy, some unscrupulous individuals try to take advantage of victims and survivors in the aftermath of disaster.