Road accidents or watching your loved one die in an accident can leave you with injuries that stay for life. An incident like this can potentially cause mental trauma and severely affect the mental stability of a person.
We often see victims filing for injury compensation. Physical injuries can have material evidence and are thus relatively easier to prove than mental illnesses. One of the common mental illnesses victims acquire after a car accident is PTSD. Since PTSD is a type of injury that cannot produce material evidence, it can be challenging to prove. You can hire car accident attorneys Los Angeles to help you with the process.
Can You File A Claim For PTSD?
If a car accident has caused you PTSD along with other physical injuries, you can certainly file a claim and request compensation. Car accidents are unexpected events that can drastically change a person’s life. The court holds the responsible party accountable for both your physical and emotional injuries.
Due to it being a psychological issue, no one can see PTSD. Therefore, it isn’t easy to prove in court. Establishing mental illnesses often requires expert testimony.
The judge and the law accept an expert witness’ opinion by education, training, certification, or skills. An expert witness can provide insights into how the person is affected by PTSD. They can observe their daily actions and understand the long-lasting effects of the accident on the victim’s life. They can also explain how the victim’s ability to enjoy life and work has changed due to PTSD.
Filing A PTSD Claim Can Be Difficult
Filing a PTSD claim is possible. However, it can be difficult for the following reasons.
- You must prove that you acquired PTSD due to being in a car accident and not for other reasons.
- You must provide evidence that your PTSD was professionally diagnosed.
- Determining an amount for PTSD can be difficult as there are no hospital bills that can quantify the effects of the disease.
- It can be difficult to prove how much your PTSD has impacted your life.
Symptoms Of PTSD
Before filing for PTSD, you should be absolutely sure that you have it. If you are experiencing these symptoms, we suggest you seek medical help.
- Flashbacks and disturbing memories of the scene.
- Disturbing dreams and nightmares.
- Avoid talking about the incident.
- Detachment from friends and family.
- Losing interest in hobbies and things you usually enjoy.
- Inability to have positive thoughts.
- Difficulty sleeping.
- Palpitations.
- Becoming startled easily.
