Serious car accidents can have life-altering consequences. Those effects can be in the form of physical injuries or emotional impact. When a motor vehicle accident leaves a person with severe emotional trauma, it can be difficult to prove. This becomes a problem when seeking compensation from the liable parties involved in the accident.
Severe cases of psychological trauma can produce extreme symptoms that interfere with a person’s attempt to return to a normal life. Such emotional and psychological effects can stem from the crash itself or the stress of dealing with its aftereffects, such as bodily injuries and physical impairments. Symptoms of emotional distress caused by trauma can include:
- Shock
- Anxiety or stress
- Extreme worry, uneasiness, or fear
- Depression
- Anger
- Loneliness or emotional withdrawal
- Embarrassment over impairments
- Mood swings
- Chronic fatigue
- Crying
- Sleep issues
- Appetite loss
- Loss of interest in once-enjoyed activities
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
Life-Altering Effects
Symptoms can change the way a person lives their life and interacts with those around them. They may not be able to concentrate at work or maintain personal relationships. They can relive the episode with flashbacks or harbor a debilitating fear that prevents them from driving or being a passenger in a car.
These incapacitating concerns can keep a sufferer from working, taking care of their families, or enjoying life the way they once did. Someone affected this way might change their entire life just to avoid triggers and emotionally pull away from loved ones.
Duration
For some, the emotional effects of a traumatic car accident can be temporary, but for others, the intense negative feelings can linger on. This can be especially true if there are physical injuries that serve as a constant reminder of the incident. Studies have shown that approximately one-third of adults and children who are involved in a traumatic crash suffer emotional scars as a result, and that those issues commonly linger for up to a year.
When the psychological effects of severe trauma last beyond a few months, it can be an indication that the trauma caused more than just temporary suffering. A mental health professional may diagnose a mental disorder, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or an anxiety disorder involving a fear of driving.
Pittsburgh Personal Injury Lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. Represent Car Accident Victims
The emotional scars caused by the trauma of a serious car accident can be life changing. If you were involved in a car accident that left you with psychological difficulties that restrict your return to a normal life, you may be able to collect compensation for your injuries. The Pittsburgh personal injury lawyers at AlpernSchubert P.C. can help you compile the necessary proof that validates your mental suffering and holds those responsible accountable. Contact us online or call us at 412-765-1888 to set up a free case evaluation. Located in Pittsburgh, we represent clients throughout western Pennsylvania, including Allegheny County, Lawrence County, and Washington County.