Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, affects many people after a serious car accident. PTSD can disrupt daily life, damage relationships, and interfere with work.
What is PTSD After an Accident?
PTSD is a mental health condition that develops after a frightening or life-threatening experience. Accident victims may face severe psychological symptoms that impact their ability to function. Common signs include:
- Intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks
- Avoidance of driving, traveling, or places related to the accident
- Mood changes, including fear, anger, or depression
- Hypervigilance, irritability, or difficulty concentrating
- Sleep disturbances and constant anxiety
These symptoms can appear immediately after an accident or surface gradually over time. Many victims do not realize they have PTSD until the condition begins to disrupt their daily routines.
How Accidents Cause PTSD
PTSD often results from accidents involving intense fear, violence, or severe injuries. Frequent causes include:
- High-impact car or truck crashes
- Motorcycle accidents involving ejection or severe road rash
- Pedestrian or bicycle collisions
- Crashes resulting in fatalities or catastrophic injuries
- Rollovers or accidents involving fire, crushing, or entrapment
Victims may relive the crash repeatedly, avoid driving altogether, or struggle to regain a sense of normalcy. PTSD is a legitimate injury that deserves the same level of respect and legal attention as any physical harm.
Who Is Liable for PTSD After an Accident?
When another party’s negligence creates the conditions that lead to psychological trauma, that party may be held financially responsible. Liable parties may include:
- Drivers who caused the crash through speeding, distraction, impairment, or reckless behavior.
- Trucking companies that failed to train drivers, maintain vehicles, or follow federal safety regulations.
- Employers when a crash occurs during work-related travel.
- Manufacturers of defective vehicle parts that contributed to the accident.
- Government entities responsible for unsafe road conditions
Courts and insurance companies require a clear link between the traumatic event and the development of PTSD before awarding compensation.
Types of Compensation Available for PTSD
West Virginia law recognizes PTSD and other psychological injuries as compensable damages when caused by negligence. Victims may seek compensation for both economic and non-economic losses, including:
- Therapy, counseling, and medical treatment
- Prescription medications and long-term mental health care
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering related to emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
The value of a PTSD claim depends on the severity of symptoms, the impact on daily life, and the cost of your treatment.
How a Charleston PTSD After an Accident Lawyer Can Help
PTSD claims rely on clear documentation, expert support, and strong evidence linking the condition to the accident. A lawyer can help by:
- Gathering medical records, therapy notes, and psychological evaluations.
- Consulting mental health experts to explain how the accident caused PTSD.
- Establishing the impact of PTSD on work, relationships, and daily life.
- Communicating with insurance companies that often minimize emotional injuries.
- Presenting a complete picture of the victim’s damages to pursue fair compensation.
These steps ensure that PTSD is treated as a serious and valid injury rather than dismissed or overlooked.
Contact Us Today
PTSD can affect every part of your life after an accident. You deserve compassion, recognition, and the financial support needed to heal. If you or a loved one developed PTSD after an accident, contact Tiano O’Dell, PLLC. Call (304) 720-6700 or message us online to arrange a free consultation with our Charleston, WV Car Accident Attorney.
