Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) After a Serious Vehicle Collision
Car, Truck, and Motorcycle Accidents can Affect a Victim Physically and Mentally for Many Years
According to the Mayo Clinic, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
Certainly a roadway collision can be extremely violent and terrifying. According to Georgia State University’s Hyper-Physics Lab, a 160 pound person—wearing a seat belt and traveling at only 30 miles per hour—experiences around 30 g’s of force in a front-end collision with a fixed object. That’s 2.4 tons of force acting on the body!
If someone survives a crash like that and they remain conscious there is a very good chance they will be deeply traumatized by the scenario. Even paramedics, who are at the scene of serious crashes suffer from PTSD. EMTs and paramedics experience higher rates of PTSD, major depression, substance abuse and suicide than the general population, according to scientific studies in the U.S. and England. This high-stress career path also holds increased risks of physical health problems and complications.
Read: How PTSD and Depression Haunts First Responders Even After the Job Is Over
One of the critical reasons every accident victim should consult with a personal injury attorney is because insurance companies often rush people into a settlement without considering the possibility of long-term physical and psychological care which may be necessary for a complete recovery.
In our 30 years of dealing with accident victims all over south Florida we have always fought for clients until we reach a settlement or judgement that is fair and adequate for all treatment no matter how extensive or expensive.
How do you Know if You Have PTSD?
Only a diagnosis from a specialized physician can pinpoint PTSD but some of the symptoms are:
- Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event.
- Avoidance: Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.
- Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Hopelessness about the future and difficulty maintaining relationships.
- Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions: Being easily startles or frightened. Overwhelming guilt or shame.
Remember, this is a very small sample of possible symptoms. Only a doctor can make a proper diagnosis.
The Law Office of Lazarus and Lazarus will meet you in confidence at with no cost to make an initial assessment of your situation and recommend professionals who can help. Please call us at 954-356-0006 to make an appointment. We are available 7 days a week.
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