Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is an anxiety disorder that can develop after a life-threatening situation or traumatic event. Ten to 45 percent of car accident victims suffer from PTSD in the year after a car crash. PTSD can interfere with relationships, social interactions, careers and everyday life.
Car accident victims with PTSD often relive the traumatic events they have experienced. Often signs of PTSD include:
- Having flashbacks or reliving the car crash
- Dwelling on the event; an inability to focus on anything else
- Physical reactions when reminded of the car accident, these may include nausea, rapid breathing, increased heart rate or profuse sweating
- Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event
- Nightmares, insomnia and other sleep disturbances
- Angry outbursts for no apparent reason
- Lost interest in favorite activities or hobbies
- Hyper-vigilance; feeling the need to always be on the alert
- Panic attacks
- Depression
- Inability to leave the house
- Fear of driving or fear of being in a car
- Alcohol or drug abuse
Some emotional trauma after a car accident is perfectly normal. See our article, "
Dealing With The Emotional Trauma Of An Atlanta Car Accident", for more information. However, victims of PTSD should speak to a medical professional about their symptoms.
In many cases, insurance compensation will cover the treatment of PTSD after an Atlanta auto accident. To discuss your claim with an
Atlanta car crash lawyer, contact the Law Offices of Shane Smith at 770-HURT-999.
Category: Auto Accidents
To reply to this message, enter your reply in the box labeled "Message", hit "Post Message."
Call Us 