Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is frequently linked to war veterans. However, many other traumatic experiences might also set off this unsettling condition. According to research, PTSD may be present in as many as 39% of people hurt in serious car accidents. We’ll talk about how PTSD and auto accidents relate to today’s topic.
We’ll also give some general information on how a PTSD diagnosis may affect your ability to receive compensation for a car accident.
If you were involved in an automobile accident and want to talk about what happened, get legal counsel from a qualified Tacoma car accident attorney.
Can PTSD Caused by a Car Accident Be Recovered?
Yes, you can make a PTSD claim if you’ve been in a car accident. In the state of Washington, those who have been hurt may seek compensation for general and specific damages (RCW 4.56.250). Any special damages that have a monetary value, such as medical expenses and lost wages, must be specified. Other ways you’ve been hurt include general damages, such as pain and suffering.
PTSD encompasses both kinds of harm.
You may be entitled to special damages if you ultimately decide to seek medical attention, talk to a therapist, or take medication to treat your PTSD. However, a large portion of PTSD diagnoses will be classified as general damages. This is because it’s more challenging to put a monetary value on adverse effects like insomnia, flashbacks, and anxiety.
Problems with Establishing PTSD Claims
Regarding your vehicle accident compensation, PTSD may be more complex to show than other physical injuries. This isn’t to say that what you’re going through isn’t deserving recompense; it is. It simply implies that you will need to develop strategies for presenting your case.
You might use the following as examples of evidence to support your claim:
- Reports that include a doctor’s official diagnosis and related information
- medical expenses for CBT, medicines, and other treatments
- Expert witnesses and evidence from others in your tight circle
- Evidence of lost work because of your PTSD
Naturally, a knowledgeable automobile accident attorney could assist you in gathering this and other proof. After having this information, a lawyer attempts to negotiate the best compensation with the insurance provider for the other motorist.
Remember that once you accept a settlement offer, you cannot afterwards demand more money. You must obtain enough money to pay for your previous medical expenses and any projected future medical expenses.