The Mental Conditions Victims Suffer After a Car Accident

In addition to physical and economic damage, car accident victims are known to suffer from mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

Filing claims for emotional losses caused by an accident can be complicated. Hiring a car accident attorney can help you ease the process to a great extent.

Mental health conditions victims suffer after a car accident

Mental health issues are often overlooked in car accidents. However, a high percentage of victims are known to suffer from several mental health conditions, including:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Withdrawal from loved ones 
• Feeling hopeless
• Panic attacks

It can become challenging to readjust to regular life as victims may startle easily and have frequent flashbacks of the accident. This would prevent them from staying calm or being able to focus at work. 

Victims of accidents who suffer from mental health conditions are known to have a higher risk of suicide. There is also a high risk of them falling victim to substance abuse.

Victims may find it distressing to get into a car after the accident. This may last for weeks or months, depending on the person. It may be difficult for them to drive a car again making it difficult for them to get around.

They may also feel the need to avoid anything related to the accident in order to avoid reliving unpleasant memories. 

An incredible 32% of car accident victims reported experiencing PTSD. 17% reported experiencing symptoms of depression. 

If left untreated, these symptoms can make life very difficult for survivors.

These factors also significantly increase the costs incurred by victims due to car accidents as they may have difficulty getting back to work or getting around, or their quality of life may be significantly impacted. 

Getting help

If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek professional help. Treatment may involve counseling sessions, continuous monitoring, and support on how to deal with difficult emotions.

Depending on the severity of the case, it may take a couple of months or a couple of years to recover from your trauma.

It is important to remember that mental health issues can be cured or managed with the aid of competent medical professionals.

Seeking damages

As someone who has suffered due to a car accident, you are entitled to compensation. Emotional damage falls under the non-economic damages of personal injury law.

To be eligible for a claim, you are expected to provide proof of your distress, which may include doctor’s notes, prescriptions, and medical bills. 

Testimonies by your counselor or therapist may also be needed, hugely impacting your case. Personal recordings, like a journal detailing your experience with the accident, will also be helpful.

The amount of damage you are owed varies from state to state. Some states may place a cap on damages.

Remember that it’s normal to feel distressed after an accident. You are not alone in this, and several resources are available to help you cope with difficult symptoms. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help!