Most people often think of physical effects when thinking about the impact of car accidents, but not the impacts on mental health. While physical injuries are the most common, they are not the only effects of car accidents. Many victims of car accidents also have to battle emotional or mental health challenges.
Something else that people do not consider is the value of a car accident lawyer. As a result, they often get cheated out of their deserved compensation. Therefore, if you have been in a car accident, you should speak to a car accident lawyer in Atlanta. With that out of the way, we’ll be looking at mental health issues that could start as a result of a car accident. We will also look at what could be done to help with these issues.
Mental Health Issues After a Car Accident
Contrary to what some people think, car accidents can take a toll on anyone depending on its severity. Usually, there is a chance that a car accident could become fatal. This realization that one came really close to death or major injury could deeply affect a victim’s mental health.
According to a study by the National Institute of Mental Health, 39.2% of car accident survivors develop PTSD. The chances of this happening increase if the individual has a previous history of trauma or the possibility of death due to the accident. Car accidents have also been shown to be a leading cause of PTSD in survivors.
In some cases, no signs come up after the accident, making victims think they are okay. However, just as some physical injuries do not show up instantly, mental health issues caused by car accidents may take some time before symptoms are exhibited.
In the beginning, victims may start withdrawing from the people around them and activities they either engaged in or enjoyed before the accident. They could also have nightmares, post-traumatic stress disorder, or develop a phobia. In this case, it could be that they become scared of driving or riding in a car.
If you know someone who has been involved in a car accident, especially if it was serious, one of the most important things you could do is to keep a close eye on them. This way, you will be able to spot changes in them. In addition to keeping a close eye on them, supporting them after the accident could also minimize the chances of emotional damage.
What Do I Do if I Have Mental Health Issues Related to an Accident?
You must first see a doctor or counselor as soon as you or someone you know shows signs of being mentally affected after an accident. A doctor or counselor can accurately diagnose your symptoms and help you know for sure what the problem could be.
They will also prescribe treatments for you, which you need to take seriously. Sometimes, mental health challenges don’t just go away after a few days of treatment. You may discover that only little has changed after seeing a doctor or counselor. This is why you need to be patient while going through your treatments.
Often, your mental health issues may be a result of the physical injuries you sustained during the accident. Visiting a doctor early could also help to prevent such occurrences. Another question you may be asking is if you can get compensated for emotional or mental distress in the same way you could receive compensation for physical injuries. The answer is yes; you can receive compensation for emotional distress.
Our Atlanta car accident attorneys can help you get good compensation if you have suffered any mental health issues resulting from a car accident. We will present evidence that your problems are directly linked to the accident. This could mean showing that you have been seeing a doctor for the issues or having those close to you testify to the change in your behavior.
Hire an Experienced Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer
Car accidents don’t just leave you with physical injuries. Sometimes, they also leave mental and emotional injuries. However, unlike physical injuries, mental injuries are not immediately visible. In addition, mental health is not always given the attention it deserves.
While we are not mental health practitioners, we can help you get the compensation you deserve. With it, you can get the help that you need. Our experienced car accident lawyers take our clients seriously. We’ll do everything we can to ensure that you are adequately compensated. Give us a call today at Calvin Smith Law to schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers.
