Motor vehicle crashes are traumatic events, particularly when they involve serious injuries and property damage. Many survivors recover from their physical harm and move on with their lives, while others struggle with mental anguish that involves ongoing treatment and expenses. When that is the case, can compensation be received for anxiety after a car accident?
How Do Accidents Affect Emotional and Mental Health?
Many people do not realize how car accidents affect emotional and mental health. After a car accident, it is normal for survivors to experience symptoms of increased emotional distress, including:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Fear
- Not wanting to be in a moving vehicle; avoiding work, school, etc.
- Sleep disturbances, including nightmares
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a common issue for car accident survivors. When the symptoms impact one’s ability to carry out their daily activities, it might be time to seek help.
Seeking Compensation for Anxiety After a Car Accident
In order to be awarded compensation for anxiety after a motor vehicle accident, you must prove that the condition developed because of the crash. Many people do not develop the symptoms until a significant amount of time has passed, and that can complicate matters. It is best to make the claim as soon as possible for a better chance of fair compensation.
- Get a diagnosis from a mental health professional. This will help establish your right to compensation. A licensed psychologist or psychiatrist can evaluate you and provide a treatment plan; medication may be prescribed if the provider is an M.D.
- Follow the doctor’s orders. Take any prescribed medications as directed, pay your invoices, and keep track of the medical and insurance statements.
- If you have a history of anxiety before the crash, that might also complicate things. Still, your therapist can work to link the accident to your current symptoms if they have worsened.
- Calculate your expenses. Besides your medical expenses, the cost of your anxiety might extend to lost wages from being unable to work. Someone with serious PTSD might be unable to drive or perform their job responsibilities; that might also qualify for compensation.
- Provide access to your medical history. Claimants who pursue compensation for anxiety are typically questioned about their past medical histories. When that happens, you may have to provide access.
Should I Consult with a Car Accident Lawyer?
Proving that a car accident caused compensable damages for emotional distress can be tough, but an experienced car accident lawyer can help you decide if your claim is worth pursuing. It is vital to be completely transparent during these discussions because false statements and exaggerations will work against you.
An accurate representation of what happened and documentation of your anxiety symptoms and expenses can help you and your lawyer assemble an effective claim. Successfully proving anxiety after a car accident is not a simple matter, but with the right legal guidance, it can be done.
Contact a Mount Laurel Car Accident Attorney at the Law Office of David S. Rochman if You Suffer from Anxiety Related to a Car Accident
Treating anxiety from a car accident takes time, and professional help can be costly and time-consuming. For a free consultation, contact a compassionate Mount Laurel car accident attorney at the Law Office of David S. Rochman. Submit our online contact form or call our Mount Laurel, New Jersey office at 856-751-2345. We serve clients in Mount Laurel, Burlington County, and the surrounding areas.