It doesn’t take much convincing to visit a doctor if you break a bone of suffer a deep laceration in a car accident. For some reason, though, people are less inclined to seek help for psychological wounds. Such injuries may not be visible or even life-threatening, but they can cause considerable damage over time.
Palm care and protect virtual brain, innovative technology in science and medical concept
According to the American Psychological Association, car wrecks are a leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among the general population. Unfortunately, people don’t always prioritize their mental health following a catastrophic crash.
If you were hurt in a motor vehicle collision with a drunk, distracted, or reckless driver, a skilled lawyer may be able to help you secure compensation for your damages, which might include the costs associated with treating both physical and psychological injuries.
To discuss your case with a car wreck attorney in Alexandria and determine if you have grounds for a claim, contact The Downs Law Firm. Ross Downs has more than 20 years of experience taking on insurance providers on behalf of accident victims. Call 318-284-8551 to schedule a free consultation.
When Should You Seek Help from a Mental Health Expert Following a Collision?
If you are struggling to cope with the emotional aftermath of a devastating crash, close friends and family members may be able to provide all the love and support you need. In some cases, though, it is wise to turn to a trained professional who has experience helping trauma victims overcome the psychological hurdles they face.
You should consider seeking help from a mental health expert if the negative emotions:
- Persist for more than three months;
- Interfere with your everyday life;
- Prevent you from returning to work;
- Affect your relationship with loved ones; or
- Overwhelm you on a regular basis.
You should also seek help if you experience any of the symptoms of PTSD, which include:
- Flashbacks or vivid nightmares of the incident;
- Distress when exposed to anything that reminds you of the incident;
- Anxiety when riding in a vehicle;
- A persistent feeling of uneasiness or fear; and
- The urge to block out everything you remember about the collision.
Overcoming PTSD can be challenging, but mental healthcare providers have the resources and knowledge to treat and manage the condition. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, treatment modalities include:
- Trauma-focused psychotherapy;
- Antidepressants;
- Stress inoculation training;
- Present-centered therapy;
- Interpersonal therapy; and
- Complementary therapies like meditation, yoga, and acupuncture.
In addition to the direct costs associated with the above treatments, people suffering from PTSD may also incur indirect costs like lost wages. Fortunately, they can include all these damages in the settlement negotiations with the party liable for the collision.
If you were hurt in a car accident that was not your fault, contact The Downs Law Firm today. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Call 318-284-8551 to schedule a free case evaluation with a car wreck lawyer in Alexandria. You can learn more about collision claims in Louisiana by visiting the USAttorneys website.