Discover How Car Accidents Can Lead to Long-Term PTSD
If you or a loved one were recently in a car accident, it is common to have anxiety while driving or riding in a car. They may even have depression or severe mental distress while driving or riding in a car. You are probably wondering how long this will affect you.
A fear of driving or riding in a car can also affect those around you. If you cannot drive, then a burden is placed on your spouse or other family members. Your fear of riding in the car can also make the driver of your car more anxious and stressed.
When teenagers don’t drive, it creates other issues. It can affect their social life and ability to spend time with friends. It can make them more reliant on their parents.
When adults don’t drive, it can create issues in their marriage or at work.
Why do I fear driving after my car accident? Did My Car Accident Cause PTSD
Serious car accidents are a common cause of PTSD, especially for children and teenagers. PTSD can cause increased anxiety while driving or riding in a car.
PTSD is a type of injuries that is recoverable in Alabama. If a victim is physically injured in a car accident and develops psychiatric issues, then the child is entitled to compensation for mental anguish. Mental anguish includes anxiety while driving, depression related to the injuries, the fear of driving, and an unwillingness to drive.
How long will I be afraid to drive?
Anxiety while driving typically resolves over time. Sometimes the anxiety resolves in weeks. Anxiety while driving will usually last no longer than 3-6 months after a car accident. However, occasionally, a victim of a bad car accident will have permanent anxiety while driving.
How do I prove that my anxiety was caused by the car accident?
Your medical treatment will be crucial in proving your harm. If you are suffering from a serious fear of driving, then you should report this to your family doctor. Usually, victims with the most severe PTSD will have nightmares about car accidents.
If your symptoms are severe, you should ask your family doctor for a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist. A medical professional may suggest medication, counseling, and mental exercises to help with your symptoms.
Anxiety and PTSD are extremely difficult to prove in a car accident case. Typically, insurance companies refuse to pay for these harms. In my past cases, I have taken sworn testimony from the treating doctors to prove the cause and extent of the harm.
If you do not see a specialist for your issues, then it is extremely difficult to prove the cause and extent of your harm.
Conclusion Of Can A Car Accident Cause PTSD
Mental anguish is a real injury, but proving the cause and extent of your harm will be difficult. Hopefully, your issues resolve over time. If not, you need to seek treatment from a specialist. In order to prove your harm, you will likely need a personal injury lawyer.
For a free, no-pressure consultation, call or text me at 256-539-8686. I will be glad to talk to you, meet you in-person, or have a video call with you.