Many individuals who experience traumatic events may struggle to adjust and cope during the immediate aftermath. However, with time and adequate self-care, they typically begin to heal. However, if symptoms intensify, persist for months or even years, and disrupt daily functioning, they may be suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). If this reflects your circumstances, please continue reading to learn whether you can seek financial compensation after a car accident for PTSD in Maryland and how an experienced Prince George’s County Auto Accident Lawyer can help you understand your legal options.
What is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop in those who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Examples of things that can cause PTSD include auto accidents, natural disasters, and acts of violence, among other events. The symptoms of this condition can significantly interfere with daily life, relationships, work, and overall functioning. The following include some of the most common symptoms of PTSD:
- Re-experiencing the trauma (vivid flashbacks)
- Negative changes in mood and cognition
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Difficulty sleeping
- Avoiding people, places, or activities related to the trauma
Can I Recover Compensation for Emotional Damages After a Car Accident?
Following a car accident, PTSD can have a considerable impact on your life. As such, it’s crucial to understand your rights and options if you receive a diagnosis following a collision caused by the negligence of another party.
Generally, when you pursue a claim against another motorist, you can seek compensation for your economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages refer to the tangible losses you incur, while non-economic damages refer to intangible losses you suffer due to your injuries. Compensation for non-monetary losses, such as pain and suffering and loss of enjoyment of life are harder to quantify.
To calculate non-economic damages, the court may assign a number to your suffering, typically on a scale from 1.5 to 5, based on the severity and impact on your life. The court will multiply this number by your economic award. For instance, if your economic damages amount to $15,000 and the multiplier is 3, the total damage award will be $45,000.
If you have PTSD from a car accident, please don’t hesitate to contact our adept legal team for advice and skilled representation. At Timian & Fawcett, LLC we are prepared to help you fight for the compensation you deserve and need to get your life back on track. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you during these difficult times.
