Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder After a Chicago Car Crash
by
Matthew Willens on Jun. 21, 2016
Accident & Injury Accident & Injury Car Accident Accident & Injury Personal Injury
Summary: If an accident victim is unable to move on from the trauma of a Chicago automobile accident, it may be a sign of PTSD.
A car crash can traumatize a person physically, emotionally, and mentally. It isn't unusual for a person to feel frightened or overwhelmed after an accident. However, if emotions become more overpowering over time, it can indicate a serious problem. It could mean the victim is suffering from post-traumatic stress-disorder (PTSD).
What is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder is an anxiety disorder that generally develops after a person has experienced a traumatic event, such as a car crash, war, loss of a loved one, childhood abuse, assault, natural disasters, or another traumatic experience.
Car Crashes and PTSD
A car wreck is a common event that can trigger PTSD. In fact, research from Georgia State University claims motor vehicle accidents are a leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder. It shows that around 25-33% of auto accident victims experienced PTSD.
Signs of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- reliving the event
- acute anxiety
- avoiding reminders of the event
If you are experiencing any of the above, you should get in touch with a medical professional. Some other symptoms others experience include:
- nightmares/flashbacks
- feelings of detachment
- fear of riding in or driving a car
- disinterest in everyday activities
- substance abuse to cope with anxiety
- bursts of anger
- restlessness
- chronic pain
- headches
- suicidal thoughts
PTSD in the Long-Term
PTSD can have an impact on the rest of a person's life. It can affect their ability to work, take care of loved ones, and live a normal life. It can also affect a victim's relationships with family and friends.
Post-traumatic stress disorder typically requires professional evaluation and treatment. If you or a loved one have been injured in a Chicago car crash and are suffering from PTSD, it is important to get in touch with a medical professional as soon as possible. Proper treatment can help you cope with and overcome the adverse effects of PTSD.
Get in touch with an experienced Willens Law Auto Crash Attorney to ensure that your legal right to compensation is protected. As we mentioned before, conditions like PTSD often require ongoing treatment and affect a person's everyday life. If your accident was caused by a negligent driver, you shouldn't be responsible for paying out of pocket. Call us today at (312) 957-4166 to schedule a free case evaluation today.