The damages of a car accident can be vast and include much more than property damage and even medical expenses. Whether a car accident was serious or everyone walked away without any major injuries, it can still leave you a bit more than “shaken up.” 

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a common condition that occurs after a car accident, however, it doesn’t get nearly enough awareness. Many people who live with PTSD after a wreck are debilitated for life, although they have no physical injuries or their wounds are long healed. 

What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder? 

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is an involuntary, immediate response to a horrifying or life-threatening event. During the event, the brain cannot properly store information, so it’s essentially “dumped” for later processing. However, this can cause extreme distress and dysfunction in a person’s daily life, making it difficult for them to work or engage with family members.  

Other Potential Causes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder 

• Military service, particularly following deployment 
• Seeing a family member or someone else die, or finding them after they have died 
• Going through a terrifying natural disaster like an earthquake, fire, or tornado 
• Domestic violence and childhood abuse 

Signs of PTSD After a Collision 

There are several signs that a person could be suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder after a motor vehicle crash, such as:  

• Having intrusive thoughts about the accident and/or having flashbacks or nightmares 
• Insomnia
• Extreme avoidance of any reminders of the accident, including refusal to discuss what happened 
• Mood swings, irritability, anxiety or panic attacks, depression, and loss of enjoyment
• Feeling numb or tired often 
• Being highly sensitive to noises and movements around you 

Damages That May Be Compensable 

Typically, a car accident victim can be compensated in a lawsuit for post-traumatic stress disorder. These damages are generally categorized one of two ways: economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include things like hospital bills and counseling, while non-economic damages are intended to ameliorate pain and suffering. 

How a Los Angeles Traffic Accident Lawyer Can Help 

At the Lewin Law Group, we understand how challenging things can become after being involved in a car accident. Even if the collision was minor, how it impacted you psychologically and emotionally may not have been. 

We can help you obtain the fair restitution you deserve for emotional suffering and post-traumatic stress disorder after a motor vehicle accident. Call today to schedule your consultation at 888.603.0201.