Auto accidents inflict much more than just physical damage. Conditions like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may arise immediately after the collision or emerge in the weeks and months that follow.
The mental and emotional toll can be profound, affecting your thoughts, feelings, and everyday functioning. If you were injured in a car accident caused by someone else, you have the right to hold them accountable for all of your damages—psychological harm included.
How Common Is Psychological Trauma After a Car Accident?
Psychological trauma following a car accident is more common than many realize. Each year, more than 50 million people around the world experience trauma due to traffic accidents, putting them at an increased risk of PTSD, depression, anxiety, and other psychological disorders.
PTSD, characterized by flashbacks, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event, often develops after experiencing a terrifying or life-threatening situation. The sudden, violent nature of car accidents makes them prime triggers for this condition. Many car accident victims develop a debilitating fear of driving or being in a vehicle altogether as a result of this trauma.
Depression and anxiety frequently accompany PTSD or occur independently after an accident. The physical pain, lifestyle changes, and financial stress associated with crashes can contribute to feelings of hopelessness and worry. Additionally, some survivors experience substance abuse as they attempt to cope with their trauma.
How Psychological Injuries Can Impact Your Daily Life
The effects of psychological trauma extend far beyond the immediate aftermath of an accident. Survivors may find themselves struggling with everyday tasks that once came easily. Simple activities like driving to work or crossing the street can trigger intense anxiety or panic attacks.
Additionally, survivors may experience:
- Sleep disturbances
- Concentration difficulties
- Worsening performance at school or work
- Trouble with social interactions
- Strained relationships with loved ones
- Irritability and mood swings
The financial and physical impact of psychological trauma is also profound. Some people experience symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues related to their mental condition. Treatment costs, lost wages due to inability to work, and reduced earning capacity can create significant economic strain, compounding the stress.
Proving Psychological Damages in a Car Accident Claim
If you were injured in an Atlanta car crash, you have options for compensation. Georgia operates under a fault accident system, meaning the party responsible for the crash is liable for resulting damages. These damages fall into two categories: economic, which includes tangible losses like medical bills, and non-economic, which involves physical and emotional pain and suffering.
Proving psychological injuries requires substantial evidence, such as:
- Medical records, including diagnoses and treatment plans
- Testimony from friends, family, or coworkers
- Evaluations from experts like psychologists or psychiatrists
- Personal journals documenting your emotional state and daily struggles
An attorney can help you build a strong case for psychological damages. They can gather and present evidence effectively, work with medical experts to establish the link between the accident and your trauma, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure fair compensation for both visible and invisible injuries.
Seek Legal Help for Psychological Injuries After a Car Accident
If you are struggling with emotional trauma following an Atlanta car crash, seek legal support to protect your rights and well-being. The car accident lawyers at Monge & Associates know what it takes to secure a full and fair settlement. Contact us at (678) 535-3938 or toll-free at (888) 653-0605 to explore your legal options and begin your journey to recovery.