The effects of a car accident in Louisiana aren’t just physical. Studies have shown that about 9% of the people involved in car accidents end up developing PTSD, which can cause emotional disturbances for the rest of their lives. For this reason, many attorneys consider emotional damages when they help their clients prepare a claim.
What are the signs of PSTD after an accident?
If an auto accident was particularly traumatizing, the survivors could develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD is often characterized by nightmares and flashbacks that cause the individual to relive the crash. They might also suffer from depression, anxiety and mood swings. Many people with PTSD are reluctant to talk about the accident, fearing that it will trigger a flashback.
While PTSD is commonly diagnosed in adults, children can also develop PTSD after a car accident. Signs of PTSD in children can include aggression, irritability, trouble sleeping or sudden personality changes. They might become afraid of vehicles or anything else that reminds them of the crash. They could also lose interest in the things that they used to enjoy.
PTSD can affect a person’s ability to function in everyday life. They might have trouble going to work, focusing on school or being a good parent. PTSD can even be seen as a form of disability. As a result, an attorney might take their client’s PTSD into consideration when they’re adding up the damages from the accident.
Can you file a lawsuit after an accident?
When you’ve been injured in an accident, filing a claim with the other driver’s insurance company might be your first step. If they don’t have car insurance, you could file a lawsuit with the help of an attorney. A payout won’t erase the trauma that you’ve faced, but it could help you pay for medication and therapy.