Posted on Wednesday, January 2nd, 2019 at 5:17 pm
The immediate aftermath of a traffic accident can be overwhelming. Many accident victims are in shock and unaware of the extent of their injuries. They are also unaware of the impact that the trauma of the crash will have on their lives in the coming weeks and months. It is never easy to suffer an injury in a car accident, but it is also not easy to get through the trauma caused by the incident.
Triggers Can Lead to Flashbacks
Various triggers can lead to flashbacks of the accident. A sound, sight, or smell may suddenly bring back flashbacks of the traffic accident. In some cases, the flashbacks can be debilitating. Some accident victims may suffer nightmares in addition to flashbacks that disrupt their sleep.
Accident victims and their families should watch for signs of post-traumatic stress disorder after a car crash. An accident victim may have PTSD without being aware of the condition.
Impact on Relationships and Daily Life
A victim can experience changes in their relationships with others, even though they may not have PTSD. The trauma of the car crash can make it difficult to get back into a vehicle to visit friends and family. A person may miss important family functions because they are dealing with the consequences of the trauma from the accident. Some family and friends may not understand the full extent of the trauma, thereby adding to the pressure felt by the accident victim and placing an additional strain on their relationship.
Impact of Trauma on Employment
The trauma of the accident can also have a negative impact on employment. Trauma can cause anxiety attacks, making it difficult or impossible to concentrate on work duties. The lack of sleep because of nightmares can cause problems at work. The anxiety and trauma can be far worse if the employee is required to drive as part of his or her job duties.
Filing a Personal Injury Claim After a Car Crash
When you file a personal injury claim after a car crash, a part of the compensation claimed is for damages related to mental anguish and emotional suffering. PTSD can be included as an injury sustained because of a car crash.
However, claiming PTSD and other emotional disorders after a car crash can be complicated. Many insurance companies are not willing to compensate accident victims for trauma without an accompanying physical injury. You should consult with a Sacramento car accident attorney to discuss the facts in your case and your legal options for recovering compensation for your damages.
In most cases, it is best to discuss your case with an attorney before giving the insurance company a written or recorded statement. You could say something that is misleading, or that may be misinterpreted. If the insurance company is trying to find evidence to disprove your claim of PTSD after an accident, a statement is one way it may try to get information to use against you.
Call a Sacramento Car Accident Attorney Now
Before talking to an insurance adjuster for the other driver, call The Tiemann Law Firm by calling(916) 999-9000 to schedule a free consultation with a Sacramento traffic accident attorney.
