A car accident is a distressing event that can have long-lasting effects. In addition to property damage and injury, car accidents leave some victims with feelings of stress that simply won’t go away. If this is the case, you may have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, and should get the treatment you need right away.
Research tells us that 9 percent of the population who have been in a car accident has suffered from a form of PTSD. When thousands of people each year are injured in a motor vehicle accident in Central Florida, this number adds up. David R. Heil, PA is a trusted Orlando auto accident attorney who can help you get compensation if you have been diagnosed with PTSD or another stress-related disorder as the result of a collision. Schedule a consultation with him to discuss your case and to see how we may be able to help.
PTSD Symptoms Following a Car Accident
To understand if you suffer from PTSD, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms. You may feel nervous or anxious when you get behind the wheel of a car, or you may stay away from certain roads while driving. In more extreme cases, you may avoid driving altogether to prevent another car accident from occurring. This distress can lead to depression or immense emotional distress, which is why you must get help as soon as possible.
If you have suffered from injuries due to a car accident, whether they were mild or life-threatening, seek medical care from a physician who will be able to evaluate you for physical injuries as well as symptoms of PTSD. They will review your medical history, recommend prescription medications, and refer you to a specialist if they feel that it will be helpful for your situation. The longer you wait for an assessment, however, the more this condition can have an impact on your personal life.
PTSD Can Affect Your Ability to Live and Work
There are many types of physical injuries that can prevent you from going to work, including limited mobility due to a broken leg or arm. However, you should know that PTSD can equally affect your ability to work. Some symptoms of PTSD include the inability to concentrate or focus, resulting in poor performance in the workplace. More than that, PTSD can impact your professional relationships. Persistent thoughts of the traumatic event can make you feel like you are reliving the experience, which can be crippling. You may even want to avoid anything that reminds you of the event, including certain people, places, or events.
In Orlando, personal injury claims involve more than just your initial medical expenses. Car accidents can lead to anxiety, depression, and other conditions that may follow you for the rest of your life. You may be entitled to compensation for signs of pain and suffering, mental anguish, and PTSD. The sooner you consult with an attorney, the more substantial your claim will appear in court. Contact David R. Heil, PA in Central Florida for a consult today. We have offices in Orlando, Winter Park, Deland, and Melbourne, Florida.
