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PTSD From Car Accidents
One serious and often overlooked effect from car accidents is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). If you or a loved one suffers from PTSD after a crash, you are not alone—and you have legal options.
What Is PTSD After a Car Accident?
PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as a severe collision. The condition affects how the brain processes stress and fear, leading to long-term symptoms that can interfere with everyday life. Common signs of PTSD from a car accident include:
- Flashbacks or nightmares about the crash
- Anxiety or panic attacks while driving or riding in a car
- Emotional numbness or withdrawal from loved ones
- Sleep disturbances or insomnia
- Hyper vigilance and irritability
- Avoidance of places, people, or situations that remind you of the accident
These symptoms may appear immediately after the accident or develop weeks—or even months—later. Without treatment, PTSD can worsen over time and lead to depression, substance abuse, and even suicidal thoughts.
Who Is at Risk for Developing PTSD After a Crash?
Anyone involved in a motor vehicle accident may develop PTSD, regardless of how severe their physical injuries are. However, several factors can increase the risk, including:
- Experiencing or witnessing life-threatening injuries
- Losing a loved one in the crash
- Being a passenger or pedestrian at the time of impact
- Having a prior history of trauma or anxiety
- Lacking emotional or social support after the accident
For some, emotional recovery takes longer and is much more complex than physical healing.
Claims for PTSD after a Car Accident
In Pennsylvania, you can recover compensation for PTSD as part of a personal injury claim, just like you would for a physical injury. However, proving PTSD requires strong medical documentation and often testimony from mental health professionals. Compensation for PTSD may include:
- Cost of therapy, medication, and other treatments
- Lost income due to inability to work
- Reduced quality of life
- Pain and suffering
Under Pennsylvania’s “choice no-fault” system (75 Pa. C.S. § 1705), your ability to sue for emotional distress depends on whether you selected full tort or limited tort coverage. Victims with full tort coverage can typically pursue full compensation, while those with limited tort must show that their condition qualifies as a “serious injury.”
How a Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyer Can Help
Proving PTSD after a car accident can be challenging, especially when insurance companies try to minimize emotional injuries. A skilled car accident lawyer can help by:
- Connecting you with mental health professionals for diagnosis and treatment
- Collecting evidence to demonstrate the the impact PTSD has on daily life, work, and relationships
- Protecting you from potential pitfalls and settling for less than you deserve
- Presenting your case clearly to insurance adjusters or juries, and ensure that the claim is taken seriously
- Navigating Pennsylvania’s no-fault and tort laws to preserve your right to full compensation
If you or a loved one is suffering from PTSD after a crash, contact a trusted Philadelphia car accident lawyer for a free consultation. Call (215) 569-0200 or reach out to Rosenbaum & Associates online today.