Common Psychological Issues After A Car Accident
Even in moderate car accidents, many people will suffer from low-level post-traumatic stress. In layman’s terms, the accident freaks them out a bit. You’re driving along, and everything’s normal. You’re paying attention to the road, and then somebody blows a red light and hits you. That’s a huge impact.
It’s an extremely jarring experience, and if the accident results in an injury, that’s even worse. In larger accidents that cause serious injuries or permanent disability, the psychological impact on you can be extraordinary.
I’ve seen clients who have been in moderate crashes and no longer wish to drive or who experience anxiety at the thought of getting back on the road. This can cause a spiral into depression, and the final result can be crippling.
Recovering Damages For Anxiety, Depression, Or PTSD
The good news is that you can recover damages for the emotional and psychological impacts of a car accident. However, you will need to have a foundation to prove these impacts. Just like your medical records prove physical injuries, you will need to seek psychological or psychiatric treatment to prove that you have suffered anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
Examples of issues to discuss with your mental health care provider include…
- Having nightmares about the accident
- Reliving the accident in your mind as if it were happening again
- Struggling to focus on normal aspects of your life
- Feelings of depression or loss of interest in daily activities
You must talk to a licensed professional about these problems. For one thing, you need help and treatment for these issues. Secondly, mentioning these mental health problems to a psychiatrist or psychologist will help to document these emotional damages, allowing you to seek compensation for them. And if you have been placed on medication due to psychological trauma, your physician will testify to this, as well.
You can also have a family member testify as to how the accident has impacted your daily life. If you’ve been waking up with nightmares or having trouble focusing, those closest to you can testify to this. As with a traumatic brain injury, you can’t see a psychological injury. As a result, medical records and the opinion of your treating physician are going to be crucial.
Attorney Alexander Memmen is a knowledgeable, determined personal injury attorney serving Illinois. For 18 years, he’s helped clients just like you understand the psychological as well as physical impacts of an accident and seek the damages they deserve.
Have questions, or in need of legal help? Reach out to the Sharks At Law for a free initial consultation today.
How Do Insurance Companies Respond To Claims For Emotional Distress?
Insurance companies will definitely fight emotional distress claims, but clear documentation of emotional and psychological distress will prove helpful.
For example, I recently handled a case where a gentleman suffered a relatively minor crash where he was rear-ended while getting off the highway. There was not a lot of damage to his car and few physical injuries, but he was truly traumatized by the event. I was able to recover a large amount of money for him based on his significant psychological trauma.
Many juries are increasingly recognizing the impacts of psychological trauma and are awarding damages for these losses. As a result, many insurance companies are likewise more willing to recognize the impact of psychological trauma and settle for amounts that take depression, anxiety, and PTSD into account.
Managing Stress While Dealing With The Post-Accident Recovery Process
How can you handle stress while recovering from an accident? Honestly, the best way to help yourself emotionally is to hire an attorney. This will give you someone in your corner who will explain the legal process to you and walk you through each step. When something is unknown, that can be a huge source of stress. Speaking with a good attorney will help answer your questions and take the pressure of understanding what to do next off of your shoulders.
We’re not doctors, but personal injury attorneys have seen many injuries. We can help you understand what to expect from treatment and what to expect while negotiating with the insurance company and in the courtroom. This guidance can be very helpful. The more prepared you are, the less stressed you’re likely to be.
Additionally, don’t hesitate to rely on family and friends for support. Talking through your stress can help you manage your emotions and reduce anxiety. The bottom line is, don’t try to do this alone. Nobody can get through an accident alone, and you should feel free to lean on your attorney and loved ones along the way.
Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?
For more information on serious injury insurance claim issues, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (312) 210-7229 today.
Attorney Alexander Memmen is a knowledgeable, determined personal injury attorney serving Illinois. For 18 years, he’s helped clients just like you understand the psychological as well as physical impacts of an accident and seek the damages they deserve.
Have questions, or in need of legal help? Reach out to the Sharks At Law for a free initial consultation today.
