Many people associate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with soldiers who have been in active war zones. Although this is a common cause of PTSD and psychological trauma, it is not the only cause. Living through any type of trauma, including automobile accidents, can result in post-traumatic stress disorder. If you are diagnosed with PTSD after a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to list it as a damage on your insurance claim.
What Is PTSD?
PTSD is a psychiatric disorder that occurs in people who experience or witness traumatic events. This can include combat, crimes, violence, death, sexual assault, abuse, motor vehicle accidents and natural disasters. It is an anxiety problem that can cause a variety of symptoms, often first noticeable in the days after the accident. PTSD is common among survivors of serious motor vehicle accidents, including vulnerable motorcyclists.
Surviving a motorcycle crash can result in post-traumatic stress disorder due to the psychological trauma the motorcyclist endures during and after the accident. Motorcycle accidents are often catastrophic for unprotected riders. Without the protective metal shell of a typical car, the mechanics of a crash can be especially loud, abrupt and distressing for a motorcyclist. A rider can also get PTSD from the pain of the injuries suffered in the crash, as well as emotional distress due to permanent scarring, disfigurement or disability.
What Are the Symptoms of PTSD After a Motorcycle Accident?
PTSD after a motorcycle crash can have many psychological effects on a rider. The motorcyclist may experience sudden flashbacks of the crash or nightmares about the accident. The rider may also wish to avoid certain events and actions, such as getting back on the motorcycle. In general, the symptoms of PTSD have to do with fear and anxiety surrounding the crash and related activities. No two victims are exactly alike, however.
Common symptoms include:
- Recurring flashbacks or memories
- Intrusive thoughts about the accident
- Edginess or irritability
- Being easily startled
- Anxiety
- Being obsessed with details of the crash
- Mood swings and outbursts
- Excessive anger
- Trouble sleeping
- Nightmares
- Depression
- Emotional numbness
- Loss of interest in favorite activities, including riding
- Trouble concentrating
Treatments for PTSD often include therapy and good self-care. In most cases, the symptoms of PTSD subside on their own within one month. If they last longer than this or feel severe, talk to a doctor or psychologist for additional treatment.
Can You Seek Financial Compensation for Motorcycle Accident PTSD?
Yes, it is possible to obtain financial compensation for PTSD after a motorcycle accident in Texas. The civil justice system allows the recovery of both economic and noneconomic damages. PTSD is a type of noneconomic damage, meaning that although it did not financially impact the victim, it significantly affected his or her life. PTSD is grouped with losses such as physical pain, suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish and loss of consortium.
To prove post-traumatic stress disorder during a motorcycle accident claim, you generally need an official diagnosis from a doctor or mental health professional. See a professional as soon as you notice potential signs of PTSD after a motorcycle crash. Even without a diagnosis, you may be eligible for financial compensation for your noneconomic losses if you can prove them with evidence such as witness statements from friends and family members, mental health expert testimony, and an injury journal.
If you need assistance proving PTSD or negotiating for fair financial compensation, consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Dallas. A lawyer will have the legal experience and knowledge you need for a strong claim to damages. Hiring a lawyer can be especially important if you plan on pursuing compensation for emotional distress or mental health conditions, such as PTSD, as you may not have hard evidence proving these losses. Talk to an attorney today for more information.