In the last several decades, the stigma associated with mental health conditions has slowly started to dissipate. Over a quarter of the population suffers from mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and it is nothing to be ashamed of.
PTSD is a serious medical disorder classified by flashbacks, insomnia, and intrusive thoughts. Many car accident victims are plagued by PTSD long after their physical injuries have healed. If you or a loved one were hurt in a car crash and are now dealing with PTSD, it is important to understand your rights.
Signs of PTSD After a Car Crash
Being involved in a serious wreck is a terrifying, traumatic ordeal. Many car accident victims deal with not only their own injuries, but also the shock of seeing other accident victims injured or killed. It is estimated that PTSD affects 25-33 percent of auto accident victims.
Symptoms of PTSD can include:
- Insomnia, hypersomnia, nightmares, and other sleep problems
- Intrusive thoughts about the crash
- Flashbacks or intense memories of the crash
- Extreme fear of driving or riding in a motor vehicle
- Exaggerated startle reflex and hyperreactivity
- Hopelessness or emotional numbness
- Lack of interest in hobbies and passions
- Reduced concentration and memory
Addressing PTSD in a Personal Injury Claim
PTSD symptoms can make it impossible for car accident victims to live their lives normally. Many struggle to work or even enjoy the activities they used to love. Mental health counseling and psychiatric medications can help, however, these treatments are often expensive. Through a personal injury claim, accident victims may be able to recover financial compensation for medical expenses like therapy and medication. They may also be entitled to compensation for:
- Lost wages from missed work
- Reduced earning capacity caused by their physical and mental injuries
- Vehicle damage and other property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
Unlike a broken leg or a traumatic brain injury, PTSD is invisible to outside observers. Unfortunately, this can make it difficult for some accident victims to receive the compensation they deserve. Personal injury attorneys often use evidence in the form of medical records and expert testimony to demonstrate the severity of a client’s PTSD after an accident.
Contact a Decatur Personal Injury Lawyer
If you have suffered from mental health problems after a serious crash, speak with a compassionate, knowledgeable Champaign car accident attorney to discuss your legal options. You may be entitled to financial reimbursement. Call Kanoski Bresney at 888-826-8682 for a free, confidential consultation.
Sources:
https://www.apa.org/topics/ptsd/ptsd-awareness
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/mental-health-disorder-statistics