Psychological Injuries

The initial impact of an auto accident is one that drivers and passengers feel immediately, unfortunately months and even years later that impact can be felt psychologically. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration a car crash happens every 10 seconds in America, thus, every 10 seconds there is a chance someone will soon suffer from psychological injuries.

Car accident victims will often suffer from injuries like broken bones or whiplash, however the injuries that cannot be seen are the ones that are the most difficult to treat. Psychological injuries can affect an individual’s daily lives and depending on the injury it can takes months or years to recover.

One study by researchers at Oxford University found that at least one-third of all people involved in non-fatal car accidents experienced psychological problems a year after the accident.

If you or a loved one is suffering from a psychological injury caused by a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Fill out the Free Case Review to your right to get your case review by one our compassionate attorneys.

Common Types of Psychological Injuries

Most everyone will experience anxiety when recovering from a car accident and it can be difficult to get back behind the wheel. Although most people recover quickly, those who continue to suffer should seek medical help as they may have some common psychological injuries like:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is considered an anxiety disorder and it is estimated that 7.8% of Americans will experience PTSD at least once in their entire lifetime. PTSD can have a number of symptoms, but they all fall into 3 categories.

• Reliving – Flashbacks, Nightmares, and repeating upsetting memories of the event
• Avoidance – Avoiding anything that reminds you of the event, feeling detached, and a decreasing interest in everyday activities
• Increased Arousal – Excessive emotions, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and trouble sleeping.

PTSD may also cause physical problems like an increased heart rate and blood pressure, nausea, and diarrhea. If the problem goes untreated, PTSD can also lead to alcohol abuse, panic attacks, and more.

Depression & Behavioral Problems

Many people who are involved in auto accidents feel hopeless or guilty after a collision, especially if they or a loved one has been hurt. These symptoms can be an indicator of depression and victims may also feel:

• Anxious
• Fatigued
• Irritable
• Angry

They might also experience a loss of appetite, lack of interest in social activities, and a constant feeling of sadness.

A study published in The Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health actually found that children who received a psychological intervention soon after a car accident were less likely to experience depressive symptoms.

Traumatic Brain Injury

Although traumatic brain injury can cause physical symptoms is can also cause, and lead to, psychological injuries

• Mood swings
• Difficulty sleeping
• Feelings of uncertainty
• Lack of memory

It is important to seek medical attention for your injuries soon after an accident whether they are visible or not.

Contact an Alabama Accident Lawyer Today

If you or anyone you know is suffering from symptoms of a psychological injury after being involved in a motor vehicle accident and are seeking legal counsel, our team of dedicated lawyers is here to help you.

At Citrin Law Firm we understand how difficult it can be to deal with the full impact of an accident, and we believe you should receive the compensation you deserve. Our office is located in  Mobile, Alabama but we are also dedicated to serving the following areas:

• Daphne
• Fairhope
• Prichard
• Crichton
• Tacon
• Toulminville
• …and many more.

Our attorneys are dedicated to serving the public good and have more than 25 years of legal experience, to get your case reviewed for free and at no-obligation by one of our lawyers contact us at 251-888-8888.

You can also reach us online by filing out the Free Case Review form at the top right hand corner of the page.