T-boned at an intersection this morning and I can't stop shaking

Please don't feel stupid — the shaking is so real and so normal. I was rear-ended about a year ago and I sat in my driveway for like 45 minutes after I got home just staring at nothing. Your nervous system just went through something traumatic. Be gentle with yourself today.

That pressure behind your eyes and the neck stiffness are worth getting looked at by an actual doctor, not just paramedics on scene. Adrenaline masks a lot of pain in the first few hours and symptoms can sneak up on you 24-48 hours later. Please go to an urgent care or ER today, even if you feel like you're being dramatic — you're not. Document everything they find, too.

One thing I'd flag: if the other driver's insurance calls you wanting a recorded statement, you do NOT have to give one right away. They are not on your side. Be polite but tell them you'll get back to them. That call can wait until you're thinking clearly.

I just want to say I'm really glad you're okay enough to be home and posting this. Sending you so much warmth right now. Is there anyone who can be with you today? You really shouldn't be alone if you can help it.

I used to work on the claims side and I want to be honest with you — the first few days after an accident are when insurers are quietly building their picture of you. Keep a simple notes app log: how you feel each morning, what hurts, what you can't do that you normally could. It sounds tedious but it matters way more than people realize later on. Also, don't post anything about the accident on social media, even vague stuff.

Three things right now: see a doctor today, don't sign anything the insurance company sends you without reading every word slowly, and hold onto every piece of paper from the scene — citation copy, photos, everything. You can sort the rest out later when your head is clearer.

Not legal advice, but since the other driver was cited at the scene you're in a relatively clear-cut liability situation. That said, 'clear-cut' doesn't mean the insurance process is fast or fair. If your injuries turn out to be more than minor, it's worth at least a free consult with a PI attorney before you accept any settlement offer. Most won't charge you anything just to talk.

I know it doesn't feel like it right now, but the fact that you're home, you made tea, you reached out — that's you taking care of yourself. The shaking does stop. I promise it stops.