Millions of Americans suffer injuries in motor vehicle collisions every year. These injuries can range from relatively minor cuts and bruises to life-threatening trauma and permanent disabilities. Regardless of the severity of an injury, it can affect a victim for months or years after an accident. In addition to physical injuries, a car accident can have a long-term psychological impact, and many victims suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you have been injured in an auto accident, a personal injury attorney can help you understand how you can pursue compensation for the emotional trauma you have experienced.
The Effects of Post-Traumatic Stress
PTSD is a mental health condition that is triggered by a frightening or stressful life event. According to the MAYO clinic, those who are involved in a car accident or witness a serious collision may suffer from PTSD, and they may experience symptoms such as difficulty sleeping, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and anxiety. PTSD can also cause emotional difficulties such as disinterest in activities, a general feeling of detachment, and prolonged efforts to avoid emotional conversations.
If you experience PTSD symptoms following an auto accident, you may need extensive therapy to help address these issues and maintain your psychological health. Treatment may include psychotherapy and medication to address depression, anxiety, or social withdrawal, and it may take years to reach a point of stability in your personal and professional life.
As you work with your attorney to address the damages you have suffered in a car accident, you will want to be sure to consider emotional trauma alongside your physical injuries. When filing a personal injury claim to recover compensation from the person responsible for the accident, you will want to be sure the damages you have suffered due to PTSD are included. In addition to addressing the costs of psychological treatment or other forms of therapy, you may also be able to receive compensation for the impact PTSD has had on your ability to work and earn an income. Your attorney can gather the evidence necessary to demonstrate the full extent of the psychological damages you have suffered and fight to make sure you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Contact an Appleton Car Accident Attorney
Recovering from a car accident can be an emotionally difficult process, and you deserve to receive compensation that fully addresses the damages you have suffered. At Herrling Clark Law Firm, Ltd., our attorneys are dedicated to helping our clients address their physical and psychological injuries. To schedule a free initial consultation with a knowledgeable Green Bay personal injury lawyer, call our office today at 920-739-7366.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/post-traumatic-stress-disorder/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355973
https://www.aafp.org/afp/1999/0801/p524.html