Car accidents are traumatic events that can have long-lasting physical, emotional, and psychological effects on those involved. While broken bones heal over a period of months, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a commonly overlooked consequence of motor vehicle accidents that can last a lifetime.
About Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. This disorder is commonly associated with military veterans, but many stressors can also affect individuals who have been through or witnessed car accidents. This debilitating disorder can significantly impact a person’s ability to function normally in their daily lives.
PTSD can manifest in various ways after a car accident. Symptoms may include:
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories of the accident.
- Nightmares and difficulty sleeping.
- Avoidance of situations that remind them of the accident.
- Hypervigilance and exaggerated startle response.
- Negative changes in mood and cognition.
These symptoms can cause significant distress and interfere with an individual’s quality of life. If left untreated, PTSD can worsen, leading to long-term consequences for a survivor’s mental and emotional well-being.
Seeking Medical and Therapeutic Assistance
The first step for individuals experiencing PTSD after a car accident is seeking medical attention. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist, is essential to receive an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Therapies commonly used to treat PTSD include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). These therapies help individuals process their traumatic experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and improve overall functioning.
The Role of Legal Support for PTSD Compensation
In addition to medical and therapeutic assistance, accident survivors with PTSD may benefit from legal support. Experienced personal injury lawyers can assist in several ways:
- Gathering evidence: An attorney can investigate the accident scene, gather relevant documents (such as police reports or medical records), and collect witness statements to build a strong case.
- Determining liability: After reviewing the evidence, an attorney can assess who is responsible for the accident. Establishing fault dictates the available compensation in your case. For example, if the accident was another driver’s fault, you would seek damages from their insurer. A settlement would depend on the amount of coverage they have available.
- Negotiating settlements: An attorney can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf for fair compensation for the physical, emotional, and financial damages caused by the accident.
- Litigation: In cases where a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney can represent your interests in court. Our personal injury attorneys are experienced trial attorneys who have gotten millions for clients who were originally offered inadequate compensation.
Representation for PTSD After a Car Accident
PTSD after a car accident is a serious condition that requires comprehensive support. Seeking medical attention and therapy are crucial steps in the recovery process. A personal injury attorney can ensure that accident survivors with PTSD get the compensation they deserve to support their healing process.
If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD after a car accident, contact our office. Call our intake specialists at (919) 526-0450 or send a confidential message through our contact page.
