Nearly 40% of auto accident survivors experience mental trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PSD), according to a study by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). So, it is not uncommon for any car accident victim to go through mental anguish after a serious car accident. The question is: Can you sue for mental trauma in a Connecticut car accident?
If you or a loved one was hurt in an auto accident, you should get checked out by a doctor immediately, so you can start on the road to recovery. Seeking help for psychological issues after an accident is just as important.
If you were injured and decide to sue the responsible party, you can use your medical records as evidence of the compensation you are due, so seeking help is not only important for your health, but also your legal case.
Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, has the experience with Connecticut car accident cases to help navigate your case. Our CT car accident lawyers can set you up for success.
Emotional Distress Following a Car Accident
Although a victim of an accident may not have a formal medical diagnosis for their mental trauma, the term "emotional distress" is commonly used to describe their state of mind. In the aftermath of a car accident, you may experience emotional distress, which can manifest in a variety of ways.
- Anxiety
- Mood swings
- Anger issues
- Experiences of shame
- Crying
- Trouble sleeping
- Lack of appetite
- Loss of interest in regular activities
These emotions can have a devastating effect on a car accident victim, making it impossible to perform even the most basic of tasks, like getting dressed in the morning. Accident anxiety can prohibit people from driving, which can prevent them from getting to medical appointments or other important activities. Although emotional distress is often fleeting, the feelings it evokes and the disruptions it causes in daily life might linger for some people for quite some time.
The Mental Trauma Caused By A Car Accident
Some people who have been in car accidents may later be diagnosed with mental issues, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is the most frequent mental health issue following a car crash. Although you hear about PTSD and military veterans, anyone can suffer from this illness after experiencing a traumatic experience. Severe car accidents can leave victims with PTSD and other mental health issues. Many people who suffer from PTSD also struggle with a crippling fear of driving and/or another anxiety disorder.
Symptoms of PTSD usually include:
- Flashbacks to the accident, which sometimes leads to "blackouts"
- Frightening dreams
- Paralyzing fear of driving or even being in or near a car
- Experiencing severe mental or bodily distress whenever anything triggers that memory
- Depression and isolation
- Self-harm
Steps To Take For Mental Trauma After a Car Accident
Seek Medical Care
Get in touch with a medical professional first. No matter what you think is causing your mental problems, you should consult a medical expert if you are having any kind of difficulty. Getting treatment can help you through this tough time and help you start feeling well soon. A mental health expert may provide you with a PTSD diagnosis after a consultation.
Acknowledge The Prognosis and Get Treatment
Therapy is often necessary after an accident victim has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder. There is a chance they'll need medication and other support to get back to normal, so it's important to follow the doctor's orders and treatment plan.
Therapy for mental health issues can be as pricey as, or perhaps more so than, treatment for physical problems. This can increase the amount of money you receive in a settlement for damages.
A CT Car Accident Lawyer Can Help You If You're Suffering From Mental Trauma
You need to prove that the car accident directly caused problems to your mental health in order to seek compensation in a settlement for damages. At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we know firsthand the mental distress caused by car accidents.
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car crash, you are entitled to full compensation for your financial, mental, and emotional losses. The Connecticut car accident lawyers of Brandon J. Broderick have the experience and dedication to client satisfaction to secure fair resolution of your legal matter.
Schedule your no-cost consultation by contacting us today.