Like many victims of car accidents in California, treating and recovering from your physical injuries is a top priority to getting on the road back to health. In some cases, obvious, visible forms of bodily harm can overshadow the emotional impact of a motor vehicle crash. The consequences for your mental well-being can be profound, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
If you were hurt in a car accident and believe that you’re experiencing PTSD, seek medical care right away. You should also consult with a Los Angeles personal injury attorney about your rights and legal remedies. Some answers to common questions may be helpful.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
In general, PTSD is an anxiety disorder that results from a traumatic event where you face death or serious injury – including a car accident. The symptoms will vary, but some signs of PTSD may include:
- Re-living the accident through dreams or thoughts that disrupt your daily life;
- Avoidance of thoughts or situations associated with the incident, such as refusing to get in a car;
- Emotional detachment;
- Feelings of loneliness;
- Inappropriate emotions, anger, irritability;
- Difficulty sleeping;
- Use of drugs or alcohol to numb PTSD symptoms; and,
- Many more.
How do doctors treat PTSD?
Your physician will recommend an appropriate care plan if you’re diagnosed with PTSD, but many approaches include psychiatric and psychological treatment – i.e., “talk therapy.” In some cases, a doctor may recommend medication to overcome the most severe symptoms.
Am I entitled to compensation for PTSD-related losses?
You may be able to recover monetary damages for any injuries that are directly caused by a car accident, including PTSD. Your Los Angeles personal injury lawyer can provide additional information, but examples of your compensation may include:
- Medical bills, including costs of treatment and medications prescribed for PTSD;
- Lost wages, if PTSD symptoms prevent you from work or limit you at your job;
- Pain and suffering;
- Emotional distress; and,
- Losses based upon how your PTSD affects your personal relationships with your spouse, children, and other loved ones.
What should I do if I’m experiencing PTSD after a car accident?
The key to car accident PTSD is getting proper medical care, which will support your health recovery as well as your claim for compensation. Then, you should reach out to an experienced lawyer who can assist with the claims process, which will initially involve settlement negotiations with the responsible driver’s insurance company. If the insurer is unwilling to pay a fair, reasonable amount to resolve your claim, you may need to file a lawsuit in court.
Set Up a Free Consultation with Our Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorneys
For answers to additional questions about PTSD after a car accident, please contact El Dabe Ritter Trial Lawyers. We can schedule a free consultation to review your circumstances and determine the best strategy for proceeding with your claim for compensation.