PTSD from a Car Accident | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

Years ago, when the public first began hearing the term post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), it usually applied to service members who had experienced harrowing combat duty. Doctors then began broadening PTDS diagnoses to other types of victims who had endured a traumatic event, recognizing the emotional impact these incidents can have. It is estimated that at least 10 percent of all car accident victims suffer from PTSD.

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Doctors now know that many car accident victims suffer from PTSD as a result of the crash. The law also recognizes that car accident victims who struggle with the disorder may also be entitled to financial damages for the condition from the party who caused the accident.

Symptoms of PTSD

Victims who suffer from PTSD from car accidents often have flashbacks of the crash that leave them feeling as if it is happening all over again. They also often struggle with nightmares and many victims report issues with insomnia. Many PTSD victims report that they cannot shut off their mind from constantly thinking about the crash. One of the most common symptoms is the overwhelming anxiety they struggle with on a regular basis.

PTSD victims can suffer from these symptoms for years, leaving them unable to function in their day-to-day life. PTSD can interfere with family life, work life, and leave the victim unable to enjoy the activities they did before the accident. Many car accident PTSD victims refuse to drive after the accident.

One of the issues that car accident PTSD victims struggle with that other PTSD victims normally do not, is that they also often are dealing with chronic pain as a result of the physical injuries suffered in the crash. The focus on the physical injuries typically leads to delays in diagnosis and treatment for the PTSD. The average delay is six months to a year.

It is critical to get treatment as soon as possible if a victim is suffering from PTSD. There are several types of treatments used, including behavior or cognitive therapy and medications. In cases where physical pain from injuries is also an issue, the victim may find it helpful to also work with a chronic pain specialist.

Contact a North Carolina Car Accident Attorney

If you are suffering from PTSD – or any other injuries – as a result of a car accident, contact a skilled North Carolina auto accident attorney today. Our Carolinas personal injury lawyers are available to meet and discuss your case and advice what legal steps you should take. Our injury firm has built a solid reputation of aggressively advocating for clients and obtaining the best results possible.