Handling PTSD After A Car Accident

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Handling PTSD After A Car Accident

4 June 2020
 Categories: , Blog

It's not just about the physical injuries after a car wreck. Many accident victims suffer from both broken bones and broken mental states. If you have been hurt through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to be compensated. Getting paid what you are owed is important, and it's vital that you understand the depth of the damage done. To help give you a better idea of what type of harm can come to your psyche, read on.

Understanding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Most people have heard of PTSD in regard to soldiers returning from war zones or with those facing other horrific events. Unfortunately, some accident victims can also suffer from this debilitating mental disorder after a bad wreck. Mental injuries can be devastating and can affect every area of your life. If you notice the following, speak to a mental health specialist and a personal injury lawyer right away:

  1. Flashbacks are likely the most recognized symptom of PTSD and involve the victim having to go through the traumatizing event repeatedly in their minds.
  2. It's not uncommon for some to experience changes in appetite and sleep patterns.
  3. Anxiety and panic attacks can come out of nowhere and cause difficulties with driving, working at a job, and maintaining personal relationships.

Bad Wrecks and Bad Effects

It doesn't necessarily take a serious accident to trigger PTSD, but the following situations are certainly more traumatic for victims:

  • When a loved one or anyone else loses their life.
  • When you or a loved one is left with permanent injuries like paralysis or other disabilities.
  • When the wreck involved children.

Seeking Compensation

Don't make the mistake of minimizing how PTSD affects your life. You are entitled to be compensated for all forms of damage, and your mental health is included. The way the wreck and your injuries affect your mental status is in a damage category called pain and suffering. To ensure you get paid the compensation you deserve, take the following actions:

  1. Never speak to the insurance adjuster for the at-fault driver.
  2. Never agree to a settlement, sign an accident release, or accept a check from an insurer without consulting a personal injury lawyer.
  3. Use a journal or notebook to record your day-to-day issues with PTSD.
  4. Seek treatment for your problems and stay in treatment until the doctor says you can stop.

Speak to a personal injury lawyer for more help and support.