Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Car accidents, in particular, can be especially traumatizing and may lead to PTSD in some people. When it comes to filing an insurance claim for a car accident, the presence of PTSD could significantly impact the outcome of the case.
To begin with, people who have been diagnosed with PTSD may experience symptoms such as flashbacks or nightmares related to their trauma which can affect their ability to drive safely. This means that if they are found at fault for an accident due to lack of care while driving, it could weaken their insurance claim and reduce any potential compensation they receive from the other party’s insurer. Additionally, victims who suffer from PTSD may also require specialized medical treatment such as counseling or therapy sessions which could add additional costs associated with their claim.
What Compensation Can I Recover for PTSD In a Crash?
If you've been in a crash and are suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), you may be able to recover damages for your medical care, lost wages, and emotional distress. Depending on the type of accident and state in which it occurred, you may be able to receive compensation for mental pain and suffering, physical pain and suffering, lost wages, medical bills, and rehabilitation expenses. You may be able to recover damages for all of the above or just some of them. A personal injury attorney can help you determine which is right for you.
Proving PTSD as a Compensable Damage In a Car Accident Claim
Car accidents can be a traumatic experience for victims. While the physical injuries sustained are often easily compensated, the mental and emotional anguish that may be caused by an accident can often go overlooked. PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a serious mental health condition that can be caused by car accident trauma and is a compensable damage in many car accident claims.
Additionally, some victims of car accidents may experience depression, anxiety, and other mental health symptoms that they were not previously suffering from prior to the accident. For these individuals, seeking counseling or therapy can be a necessary step in the recovery process and can also be covered as part of a state-approved auto insurance policy or personal injury claim.
