Starting A Car Accident Ptsd Compensation Claim
If youd like to speak with us about claiming compensation for PTSD after a car accident, please call our team on today. Theres no obligation to proceed but theyll give you free legal advice about your options whatever you decide to do next.
If your claim proceeds, your solicitor will act on a No Win No Fee basis meaning you dont need to pay their legal fees unless your claim is successful.
If you have further questions on how much compensation for PTSD after a car accident you could claim, please connect to our live chat service today.
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How Do I Know If Its Ptsd
The only way to know for sure if you are struggling with PTSD is to be diagnosed by a qualified doctor. However, there are some tell-tale symptoms that distinguish PTSD from anxiety and other disorders. If you notice these symptoms, it could be PTSD.
Have you experienced any of the following since your crash?
- Flashbacks. Certain smells, objects, or interactions may suddenly trigger a replay of the crash in your mind. In some people, these flashbacks are accompanied by physical symptoms.
- Avoidance. You take extra measures to avoid people, places, or situations that remind you or the accident.
- Easily irritable. It may be more difficult to control your emotions. Situations that would only cause you minor irritation before might seem overwhelming. Also, you may feel constantly on edge.
- Sleep disturbances. This could take the form of insomnia or nightmares.
- Depression. You struggle to find enjoyment in activities you once loved. Additionally, you might feel like your mood has cast the world in a pessimistic light.
- Isolation. You withdraw from people and social situations.
It goes without saying that symptoms like these can be extremely distressing for you and your loved ones. If this list resonated with you, we encourage you to reach out to your doctor as soon as possible.
Suing For Ptsd As A Car Accident Victim
Yes, you can sue for PTSD after a car accident. As long as you have some physical injuries and meet the threshold to bring a third-party claim in your state, you can include PTSD as part of the claim. Each state has its own laws for when a victim may sue the responsible driver for a car accident. If you qualify to claim compensation from the driver based on state laws, you can sue for PTSD and other non-economic damages after a car accident.
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Examples Of Ptsd Lawsuit Settlements
Lets say that two different victims experienced serious accidents, and both victims faced a PTSD diagnosis.
These hypothetical situations explain how two people in similar accidents can recover different settlement amounts:
- A $150,000 PTSD settlement: A 35-year-old woman was in a car accident on the highway when another vehicle merged into her lane. The vehicles spun out on the icy road, and she suffered severe whiplash, which forced her to miss nearly ten days from work. Additionally, she was also afraid to drive on the highway following the accident and suffered painful flashbacks. The trauma of the accident led the victim to seek out treatment for PTSD for two months following the accident.
- A $500,000 PTSD settlement: A 42-year-old man was run off the road by a semi-truck, and the victims vehicle was totaled when he crashed into a ditch beside the highway. He suffered multiple broken bones, including broken ribs, which forced him to temporarily change jobs at his company. He was also diagnosed with PTSD along with depression, as he was unable to perform his former work duties or physical activities for several months. His PTSD symptoms interrupted his sleep schedule and ability to drive.
Of course, every case is different. Even if your situation somewhat resembles the details of these hypothetical cases, there are many aspects of your case that could differ from those aboveand impact your potential settlement amount.
How Do I Know If Im Experiencing Ptsd After An Accident
There are specific behaviors that doctors consider before diagnosing a victim with PTSD. Before making the diagnosis, victims must be experiencing these symptoms for a month or longer. The symptoms must be so intense that it affects their daily life and causes significant ongoing emotional distress. Another indicator of having PTSD is accompanying conditions, such as:
- and memory issues.
Car accident victims can experience PTSD symptoms for months after the accident. For severe and fatal accidents, a victim might suffer for years. These symptoms usually show within three months, but the APA notes that it can take longer.
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Identifying Ptsd After A Crash
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration , more than five million car crashes were reported to the police in the United States in 2020. Approximately 43% of these car crashes result in treated injuries. This equals about four injuries per minute in America
These numbers were down from other non-pandemic years. On average, the U.S. sees an estimated six million vehicle crashes resulting in between two-and-three million injuries.
During and in the immediate days following a crash, many people run through a gamut of feelings that might include:
- Uncontrollable memories or flashbacks regarding the crash
- Using drugs or alcohol to try to suppress the feelings
The risk of PTSD after a crash can increase if several other factors are present. These factors may include:
- If it was a life-threatening vehicle crash
- If anyone in the crash suffered major injuries
- Serving as a first responder to traumatic events like law enforcement, firefighters, and emergency rescue workers
- Experiencing a previous traumatic event like a prior car crash, an assault, rape, terrorist attack, or a natural disaster
- Someone who already suffers from various mental disorders like anxiety or depression
- The amount of support or treatment a person gets after the crash
What Is The Average Ptsd Settlement In Missouri
If you are ready to file a PTSD claim but need more information about the average PTSD settlements in Missouri, consult a lawyer first and foremost. An experienced lawyer can provide insight on the average compensation for people living with PTSD in Missouri, create a strong claim for your case, and offer support to your family during this confusing time.
Christopher Dixon and the St. Louis PTSD lawyers at The Dixon Injury Firm understand how difficult it is to live with PTSD after a traumatic accident, and we are dedicated to recovering the most compensation for your claim.
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Emotional Damages From A Car Accident
To have a valid claim, you must have a physical injury. If you have physical injuries, you can also claim emotional injuries. These are non-economic damages like PTSD, pain, and suffering.
Your compensation will depend on your damages. Damages are the costs or losses from the accident. If the accident caused your PTSD, you could claim the following:
- Medication expenses for PTSD
- Mental health therapies
Your claim can also include lost wages, vehicle repairs, and medical costs for other injuries. Talk to an experienced lawyer today to know your options. PTSD is not a visible injury like physical wounds. However, it is every bit as real. You deserve compensation for how the disorder has impacted your life. If someone else caused your car accident, its essential to know your rights.
Claiming For Ptsd After A Car Crash On Behalf Of Somebody Else
PTSD after a car crash can affect all aspects of a persons life. In the very worst cases, this might mean a claimant does not have the mental capacity to claim compensation themselves. If this is the case, you could become their litigation friend and manage the claim on their behalf. If this is something youd like to discuss, please call our team for free legal advice.
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Ptsd Does Not Change The Liable Party In The Accident
While PTSD may change the claim amount you can receive, including compensation for pain and suffering and for counseling expenses associated with the accident, it does not change the liable party in the accident. Following a car accident, the police officer on the scene may fill out a report that indicates who bears responsibility. You may also work with a lawyer to help provide liability in your accident. Your PTSD symptoms will not factor into this equation: if you caused the accident, for example, you cannot seek compensation from the other party just because you have PTSD symptoms.
If you need an experienced car accident attorney after a serious accident, especially if you have PTSD symptoms, contact one as soon as possible. An attorney can help decrease the stress associated with your claim and make it easier for you to seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Why Work With The Dixon Injury Firm
At The Dixon Injury Firm, we are prepared to help you with your PTSD lawsuit settlement in the St. Louis area.
You may want to work with us because:
- We know the St. Louis area: We are familiar with the locations and roadways where drivers may encounter serious accidents, such as Grand Avenue, the Delmar Loop, and beyond. We can use our knowledge of the local area to produce compelling evidence for your case.
- We have a record of results for personal injury victims: We have secured multi-million dollar awards and settlements for past clients. We will work hard for your cases results, too.
- We offer representation at no upfront cost: We will get to work on your case without any hourly rates or retainers involved. We work based on contingency, meaning that we only get paid if we win for you.
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Florida Law For Suing For Ptsd After A Car Accident
Florida law 627.737 is the law that describes when a person can sue for PTSD after a car accident. It says that victims may recover payment for suffering and mental anguish if they meet the physical injury threshold. The threshold is suffering a serious, permanent injury, disfigurement or death. As part of winning a PTSD car accident lawsuit, you need to prove that you meet the injury severity requirement and establish the severity of the PTSD.
Treatments You Could Need For Ptsd
If you suffer with PTSD, you may need extensive treatments to help you cope with the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, the challenges these symptoms cause in your life, and the underlying causes of the condition.
Treatments may not always stop you from experiencing PTSD, but can help you to function better and perform your daily tasks even if youre no longer able to work.
Treatments could include the following:
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When Ptsdcompensation Might Be Available
PTSD is most commonly associated with combat veterans.However, given that car accidents commonly result in fatal injuries it shouldcome as no surprise that it can manifest after a serious crash.
Not every car accident will result in a viable claim forPTSD compensation, though. Accidents with limited injuries are unlikely toresult in a claim for damages. On the other hand, collisions that lead tosevere, permanent, or even fatal injuries could result in a viable claim fortrauma.
Proving Ptsd In Car Accident Case
Collecting evidence of a mental illness might be difficult, but it is not impossible. Prove the need for treatment and medication, as well as the time missed from work caused by anxiety, by presenting evidence of any injuries that could be connected to PTSD.
Prove that youve missed time at work, had frequent doctors visits, and have trouble focusing on your job. Your loved ones may act as character witnesses. In a written statement, explain how you have used drugs or alcohol to cope with PTSD. Also, mention how PTSD has altered your personality and character.
For a free legal consultation, call
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Fob James Law Firm Llc
Emotional injuries can be just as devastating as physical injuries in a car accident.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident caused by someone elses negligence, you might have a claim for physical and emotional damages, including post-traumatic stress disorder .
People typically associate PTSD with military-related trauma, but the psychological effects from a car accident can be devastating, especially if you witnessed a loved one die.
To learn more about pursuing a claim for PTSD after a car accident, speak with an experienced personal injury lawyer at the Fob James Law Firm.
What Do I Need For A Successful Ptsd Claim
In order to successfully sue for PTSD following a car accident, its highly recommended to have the following:
- A personal injury lawyer who is experienced in developing comprehensive case strategies with complex damages in mind. They have the knowledge and skills to craft a compelling argument on the basis of your PTSD.
- Expert witnesses to corroborate your PTSD diagnosis and that your car accident directly contributed to your PTSD. This may include medical professionals, licensed therapists, academics, or other experienced individuals who may have first-hand knowledge of PTSD and the circumstances surrounding its development. More expert witnesses is always beneficial to your case.
- Someone who may be able to accurately quantify the damages associated with your PTSD. Unlike physical injuries, determining how much your case is worth can be more complicated. Consulting a professional who has experience in determining the value of a case involving a mental disorder can be invaluable to your recovery.
Car accidents can be traumatic, and nobody should discount the impact one may have on our physical, emotional, and mental health. If you developed any disorders or health issues, you deserve compensation for your damages no matter how much it looks like it impacts your life.
PTSD is arguably more impactful than many major injuries, and thus should be taken more seriously by the legal system.
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What Is Ptsd From A Car Accident
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a type of mental health disorder. It is caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. The condition affects an estimated 3.5 million adults annually.
While PTSD was once called shell shock and primarily diagnosed among members of the military who had fought in a war, experts now recognize that this psychiatric disorder can appear in anyone who faces trauma.
PTSD is different from the normal difficulties people have when adjusting after an upsetting event. While many people who experience a car accident or other trauma face temporary challenges but get better with good self care, post-traumatic stress disorder can last for years and can interfere with routine life activities.
As mentioned above, car accidents are the leading cause of this type of psychiatric disorder among the general non-military population. The American Psychological Association also reports that motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of trauma for men and the second leading cause of trauma for women.
Get Legal Help For Your Ptsd Car Accident Case
If you have PTSD after a car accident caused by another party, it is essential to seek medical treatment immediately. After seeing your doctor, you may want to take legal action against the person who caused your trauma.
Lawsuit Info Center can help you find an experienced personal injury attorney in your area. You may be entitled to compensation for your physical and emotional injuries. Use our site to find a licensed attorney near you today.
- Whats my car accident settlement worth?
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Let Our Attorneys Help You Manage Your Case
For questions about what you can expect in a settlement for PTSD after a car accident, contact the team at Laborde Earles Injury Lawyers. Your settlement should reflect what you experienced, provide relief for your current circumstances, and compensate you for future expenses. That means it will be a personalized amount tailored to you.
Can A Lawyer Help You Get Compensation For Psychological Injuries
You might feel overwhelmed by your symptoms right now, but you dont have to feel alone. Our Georgia auto accident lawyers know how to seek compensation for you to help cover the emotional and financial costs of your trauma. When life feels shaky, knowing that someone is working behind the scenes on your behalf helps you to feel more confident about your recovery.
Your lawyer can also help you to know what is normal regarding compensation for emotional distress. This way you dont make a hasty decision on a settlement that costs you down the road.
While cuts and bruises tend to heal quickly, the marks left on your emotional health can linger long after youve physically recovered. Emotional trauma typically requires time and professional help for you to fully work through. Being able to cover the cost of therapy and the effects that mental anguish has on your life helps you focus on moving forward with a positive perspective on life.
Reach out to our team at Westmoreland, Patterson, Moseley & Hinson today for your free consultation. Well discuss all your options and help you receive the compensation you deserve.
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Expert Testimony Helps Chart Your Recovery
Consulting experts helps establish a medical and economic prognosis for your PTSD in the months and years to come. Expert witnesses can provide insight into your car accident experience based on the evidence they review. They will draw upon their observations, expertise, and specialized knowledge to determine what happened. Their professional opinion can help others understand how your PTSD developed after the accident. We can help calculate your future losses by talking with:
- Doctors: The Mayo Clinic describes how a doctor can conduct a physical exam to confirm that other medical issues didnt cause your condition. They also can perform a psychological evaluation and consult with the current edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders before diagnosing PTSD.
- Therapists: They can confirm a patients PTSD-related stressors and describe the treatments a patient has received or will need to help them manage their PTSD symptoms.
- Economists: They can quantify your losses from the car accident and explain the economic impact they will have on your short- and long-term finances. Their calculations, data, and analysis can underscore a plaintiffs compensation request.
- Actuaries: They can weigh in about how a car accident can affect a victims long-term employment prospects and their benefits, such as a retirement pension. They will use their calculations and other actuarial methods to explain the scope of the victims losses.