The mental effects of a car accident are often overlooked, but you should know about them as they can be included when factoring the need for compensation for non-economic damages. Here are some of the things you should know about emotional trauma from a car accident.
What Happens and How Long Does It Last?
Just like with any traumatic experience, many accident victims can suffer from post-traumatic stress. This is a condition that can cause the individual to suffer from anxiety, panic, fear, and other emotions stemming from flashbacks to the traumatic event—in this case, a car accident.
It’s often triggered by some of the sights and sounds present during the accident such as sirens wailing, horns honking, tires screeching, and cars colliding. Unfortunately, when these sounds or sights are experienced in the future, it can stop the victim in their tracks, almost as if they
are out of their own body. This is the type of impact PTSD can have on an accident victim.
How Do Mental Effects Factor Into Claims and Lawsuits?
The emotional trauma may be considered pain and suffering resulting from the accident. There is no way to determine an exact value associated with emotional pain, but it is factored in when considering the amount of compensation an injured party can pursue.
Having a lawyer on your side can help you understand what options you have to seek compensation and to which you may be entitled. This includes the amount that may be available to help you with future therapy, any changes you must make in lifestyle, and your mental anguish.
At Koenigsberg & Associates Law Offices, our Brooklyn car accident attorneys are ready to put your needs and best interests first. If you’re experiencing some form of post-traumatic stress in the aftermath of a negligence-related compensation, you may have legal rights and options.
Speak with our lawyers today. Call (718) 690-3132.
