Each year in the U.S., over six million car accidents are reported, many leading to severe physical injuries and, quite often, deep psychological scars. One such psychological effect is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). While many people typically link this condition to war veterans, it can also manifest in survivors of traumatic incidents such as car accidents. Understanding PTSD, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options is vital in ensuring recovery and in seeking rightful compensation in your accident claim.

What Is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop following a traumatic event. Car accidents are, in fact, one of the leading causes of PTSD in the general population. PTSD is more than just the normal stress that people feel after a traumatic event; it’s a serious condition that requires understanding, treatment, and support.

Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD is a complex condition, manifesting in an array of symptoms that can significantly interfere with an individual’s everyday life. These symptoms are not always obvious to the sufferer or those around them initially and can sometimes take weeks or even months to appear after the triggering event. Therefore, understanding the range of potential PTSD symptoms is crucial for early recognition and intervention.

  • Intrusive Memories involve recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event. These intrusive thoughts can take many forms, from vivid flashbacks during the day to nightmares that disrupt sleep.
  • Avoidance Behaviors are common among PTSD sufferers, who will go to great lengths to avoid reminders of their trauma, like avoiding specific locations, refusing to drive, and avoiding conversations about the accident.
  • Negative Changes in Mood is a common symptom where an individual’s mood and thought patterns are altered post-accident. This may result in persistent feelings of guilt, negative self-perception, lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, or feeling detached from friends and family.
  • Alterations in Physical and Emotional Reactions can include being easily startled, feeling on edge, having difficulty sleeping or concentrating, and exhibiting aggressive or irritable behavior.
  • Changes in Emotional Responses are common symptoms that can include getting scared easily, becoming more angry or irritable, or even feeling emotionally numb.

Diagnosis of PTSD involves a comprehensive review of these symptoms, typically conducted by a mental health professional. To be diagnosed with PTSD, individuals must experience symptoms from each of the categories above, and these symptoms must last for a month or longer and cause significant distress or impact daily activities.

Treatment for PTSD

Treatment for PTSD typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and self-care, with a goal to manage symptoms and improve the quality of life. Of course, each individual’s treatment plan is unique, and tailored to their specific needs, symptoms, and circumstances. Some common treatment types include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PET)
  • Medication
  • General Self-Care

While PTSD is a challenging condition, these treatment methods have proven effective in many cases. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or a mental health professional to develop a treatment plan that best suits the individual’s needs.

Getting Compensation for PTSD After a Car Accident

Receiving compensation for PTSD as a result of a car accident involves proving certain elements to substantiate your claim. Here are key points you will need to demonstrate:

  • Establish Liability: You must prove that the other party was at fault in the car accident.
  • Connection to the Accident: You need to demonstrate that your PTSD symptoms directly resulted from the accident.
  • Professional Diagnosis: A formal PTSD diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional is crucial.
  • Treatment and Prognosis: Providing detailed records of your treatment plan, therapy sessions, medications, and prognosis helps substantiate your claim.

Upon successfully proving these elements, the compensation received may cover a variety of costs and impacts. Here are some areas that such a settlement could address:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes costs for therapy, medication, hospital stays, or any other related medical expenses.
  • Lost Wages: If PTSD symptoms have made you unable to work or reduced your ability to earn, you may be compensated for these lost wages.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for pain and suffering covers the physical and emotional distress caused by the accident and the resulting PTSD.
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If PTSD has impeded your ability to enjoy daily activities or hobbies, you may receive compensation for this loss.

In order to make your claim successful, it’s important to follow some best practices:

  1. Seek Immediate Help: Obtain prompt medical attention and mental health support following the accident.
  2. Keep Comprehensive Records: Maintain thorough documentation of all medical treatments, therapy sessions, and any symptoms or episodes related to PTSD.
  3. Engage an Experienced Lawyer: A lawyer who is experienced in personal injury and PTSD claims can help navigate the complexities of your claim and work to secure the best possible outcome.

Remember, each PTSD claim is unique, and while this information provides a broad overview, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand the specifics of your case. At Great West Injury Law, our knowledgeable and compassionate attorneys can guide you through this difficult process, ensuring your best interests are protected.

Great West Is Here in Your Time of Need

Raising awareness about the potential for PTSD following a car accident is important and can enable survivors to seek the help they need promptly.

Equally important is the need for timely legal assistance to ensure fair compensation for the physical, psychological, and emotional toll of the traumatic event. Reach out to Great West Injury Law today for a free consultation, and speak with our team of experienced car accident lawyers.