Can You Sue for PTSD as a Result of a Car Accident?

woman with ptsd from car accident

When we think about being injured in a car accident, we often imagine whiplash, broken bones, and neck and back issues. However, when we are involved in a car accident on the road, it can also be extremely traumatic emotionally. 

After suffering injuries from a car accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another driver, you will likely be compensated for your physical injuries as well as the damage done to your vehicle. But what about injuries sustained to your mental or emotional health? What if you develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD); are you entitled to recover for that as well?

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that affects those who have been through a terrifying or life-threatening event. While it is mostly known for affecting soldiers after they return from a war zone, it can occur in many other situations, such as a serious car accident. 

Symptoms of PTSD may include:

  • Nightmares
  • Flashbacks
  • Irritability
  • Increased heart rate
  • Irregular sleep patterns
  • Sudden anger and strong emotions
  • Anxiety of impending doom
  • Pulling away from friends and family
  • Profusely sweating
  • Constantly and/or continuously thinking about the accident 
  • Avoiding the location of the accident
  • Heavy breathing/breathing issues
  • Memory loss of certain parts of the accident
  • Stomach pains

However, while PTSD can impact your life as much – if not more – than a physical injury can, it is often more difficult to prove a claim of PTSD since it is an invisible illness. 

A Qualified Physician Can Make a Difference

Your best bet at proving that you have PTSD as a result of the car accident is by having a qualified physician diagnose you with the condition and have he or she conclude that it’s due to the accident in which you were involved. 

Since there are no physical markings to look at, as is often the case with a physical injury, it’s also much likelier that you will be required to have the physician confirm your case by providing expert medical testimony. Defendants will generally cross-examine your expert witness and will have their own to provide expert medical testimony demonstrating the opposite opinion of what your physician has stated in order to try to disprove that the victim suffers from PTSD. Ultimately, this is up to the jury to decide. 

MPJ Law Firm Can Help Those Who Have Been Injured in a Car Accident

Issues that arise as a result of PTSD may ultimately prevent the victim from living a productive and normal life. You shouldn’t have to pay such a steep price for someone else’s mistakes. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, it can feel overwhelming – but it doesn’t have to. At MPJ Law Firm, we have a deep understanding of car accidents and the physical, mental, and emotional injuries that can present themselves and negatively impact your life. We will always act in your best interest. You are never alone. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!

Posted in: Automobile Accidents, Birth Injuries