Ptsd Risks Following Car Accidents
Post-traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety disorder that stems from an incident that’s traumatic, such as a motor vehicle collision. The symptoms of PTSD can be severe and very debilitating, affecting the individual’s life daily. If you were involved in an auto accident and have been diagnosed with PTSD, you may be entitled to compensation that can cover the cost of ongoing therapy and other effective treatments.
How Common is PTSD Following Car Accidents?
In the aftermath of an auto accident, physical injuries are often the focus of recovery efforts. Unfortunately, the mental impact of a car crash is usually ignored. Many people are unaware that the emotional trauma from an automobile accident can result in PTSD. Auto accidents are the leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder in the general population.
PTSD often goes untreated because many accident victims are not aware that they have it.
What Are the Risks Of Developing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder After a Car Crash?
Approximately 6% of the population will experience this mental disorder at some point in their lives. Members of the military are more likely to experience PTSD than civilians, while women are more likely to develop PTSD than men.
Certain risk factors that can increase the odds that a person will develop PTSD after being involved in an auto accident include:
- History of substance abuse
- Family history of mental health conditions, such as depression
- Having suffered past abuse
- Lacking a support network
- A history of depression
- Having an existing mental health condition
How is PTSD Treated?
Mental health professionals who specialize in helping patients cope with trauma can be invaluable for people diagnosed with PTSD after being involved in an automobile accident. Every case of PTSD is different. A therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist will work closely with an accident victim to create a treatment plan. Treatment for this mental disorder typically involves a combination of prescription medications, support opportunities, and targeted therapies.
Treatment may include:
- Mindfulness practices
- Lifestyle adjustments
- Support groups
- Antidepressants
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Supportive talk therapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
What Are the Symptoms Of PTSD That May Follow a Car Accident?
The symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder include:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Reliving the accident
- Involuntary memories
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks
- Avoidance of reminders
The symptoms of PTSD can persist for several days, months, or even years. Fortunately, for many, the symptoms of PTSD can clear up within a few months, up to one year. Without proper treatment, the symptoms can worsen. Those affected with PTSD can seek treatment at any point, and therapies for this disorder continue to adapt and improve.
Can I Pursue Compensation After Sustaining PTSD in a Car Crash?
PTSD is a medical condition that involves mental anguish and requires professional treatment. If you were involved in an auto accident and have been diagnosed with PTSD, you may be entitled to compensation that can cover the cost of treatment, pain and suffering, and other damages.
How Can a Car Crash Lawyer Help?
A car accident lawyer at Lem Garcia Law can review your case, investigate the accident, and help you recover damages that allow you to seek the medical treatment you need, for as long as treatment is required. Additionally, they will fight for economic and non-economic damages for lost wages, property damage, emotional distress, and more. While you focus on healing and moving on with your life, a car accident attorney at Lem Garcia Law can handle every aspect of your case and fight for your rights.
Contact Us Today
If you were involved in an auto accident and have been diagnosed with PTSD, a car accident lawyer at Lem Garcia Law can help. Contact us today to schedule a free case review to learn more about your legal options and rights and how an experienced car accident lawyer on our legal team can help you fight for the compensation you deserve.