Mechanic bills, lost income, health-care expenses – a serious car accident can jeopardize a person’s financial stability. Unfortunately, the effects of a collision extend beyond the monetary losses. It is not uncommon for victims to suffer post-traumatic stress disorder; in fact, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, traffic wrecks are the most frequently experienced traumatic event and the most common cause of PTSD.
How widespread is the problem? The American Family Physician estimates that 9 percent of all people involved in car wrecks develop symptoms of PTSD.
If you notice the symptoms of either physical or psychological trauma after a collision, your top priority is to seek medical attention. Many victims put off medical treatment because they fear the cost; however, if your crash was caused by another person’s negligence, then the at-fault driver may be liable for your health-care bills.
If the incident happened in Mississippi, contact a Jackson personal-injury lawyer from Ballard Law, PLLC. William E. Ballard will evaluate your case to determine if you have grounds for a claim.
Mr. Ballard is an 18-wheeler accident attorney with the knowledge, resources and courtroom experience to help you claim the maximum compensation. Call 769-572-5111 to schedule a free initial consultation.
Symptoms and Treatment for PTSD after a Car Accident
Post-traumatic stress disorder affects every patient differently. As such, PTSD can be difficult to diagnose.
PTSD can cause both physical and psychological symptoms. Often, patients with PTSD relive the accident through nightmares and flashbacks. They may avoid people and experiences that remind them of the wreck. They may also show signs of anxiety or depression
According to the Mayo Clinic, treatment for PTSD usually involves a combination of psychotherapy and medication.
Psychotherapy
- Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you recognize and avoid negative or unreasonable ways of thinking after a traumatic event; and
- Exposure therapy encourages you to confront the cause of your PTSD and learn how to overcome it in a controlled environment.
Medication
- Antidepressants, such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil), can treat the effects of depression and anxiety;
- Short-term treatment with anti-anxiety medications can reduce stress. These are not ideal for long-term use due to their high potential for abuse; and
- Prazosin (Minipress), although not FDA-approved for PTSD treatment, can treat persistent nightmares in the days and weeks after a car crash.
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash that another driver caused, contact a Mississippi car accident attorney from Ballard Law, PLLC. You may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income and non-economic damages.
Our legal team will gather evidence, interview witnesses, assess the police report and doctors’ records, and aggressively represent your interests. You will pay no attorneys’ fees unless you recover compensation. Call 769-572-5111 today to schedule a free initial consultation with a personal-injury lawyer in Jackson.
