Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often something that is identified in combat veterans, police officers, first responders and others who have experienced extraordinarily traumatic events. A soldier may have seen friends die in combat, for example, or they may have suffered serious injuries.
For the average American, however, these types of traumatic events simply aren’t going to happen. For most people, being involved in a serious car accident is probably the most frightening and challenging event of their lives. This could also lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, especially if someone suffered major injuries or if a loved one died in the crash.
How will this affect your life?
Exactly how PTSD manifests is different from one person to the next. But it could cause extreme anxiety, depression or nervousness while driving a car. Some people find that they can’t drive anymore after a serious accident. They have physically recovered, but from an emotional and mental standpoint, it’s just impossible for them to get behind the wheel. Others practice avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding the specific roads where the crash took place.
PTSD can also have an impact on your life even when you’re not driving. Some people experience flashbacks and nightmares. This can harm their sleep cycle, their personal relationships, their professional relationships and more.
Seeking compensation
If you’ve been involved in a car accident, it’s important to understand all the legal options you have to seek financial compensation from the at-fault driver. PTSD is just one area to address, along with other injuries, medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering and much more.