A report from the Journal of Nervous and Mental Disease studied the psychological responses to injuries following a car accident. Almost 40 percent of the study participants experienced distressing symptoms from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depression in the weeks and months following the collision.
Symptoms impaired the victims’ performance at work or school and affected their personal relationships and social life. Regrettably, the report’s findings are commonly reflected in our clients’ accounts of how being injured has impacted their lives. As such, this guide is intended to provide information about the help available to support you in this difficult time.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Psychological Trauma
While it is common to feel anxious immediately after a car accident, if the symptoms persist or worsen in the weeks and months that follow, it is advisable to consult with a mental health counselor. Signs of emotional trauma that commonly affect the lives of auto collision victims can include:
- Feelings of uneasiness that do not go away
- Anxiety about driving or being a passenger in vehicles
- Changes to your sleep patterns or trouble sleeping
- Feeling irritable, overly worried, or angry
- Disconnecting from friends and family
- Problems concentrating at work or school
- Flashbacks of the accident that you cannot stop or control
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Can I Recover Compensation for Mental and Emotional Suffering After a Car Crash?
Our injury attorneys can help you pursue compensation for poor mental health following a car accident along with other accident-related losses. Everyone we support is unique and faces challenges specific to their circumstances, so compensation varies case by case.
By treating our clients like family, we take the time to truly understand what you are going through. This way, we can make an accurate estimation of the impact of the accident on your life physically, emotionally, and financially. We can then present a compelling argument in support of your case when we seek compensation for:
- Current and future medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Pain, suffering, and emotional trauma
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Lost wages and compensation if your ability to work is affected
- Other losses related to your injuries
How do I Know If I Have a Case?
The easiest way to understand your legal position is by having a free consultation with our team. Here we can discuss your situation and provide no-obligation advice about possible next stages in seeking compensation. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned previously, it can be beneficial to:
- Consult with a healthcare professional to have your symptoms diagnosed, treated, and documented
- Keep a journal documenting how the accident has impacted your everyday life
- If possible, take down details of any witnesses to the accident
- Take photographs of the scene of the accident
- Keep records and receipts of any expenses you incur as a result of the accident
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Is the Legal Process Complicated?
One of the many benefits of hiring an injury lawyer is that we manage every aspect of your claim and/or lawsuit. The legal process can be complex, as emotional distress can be challenging to prove (and disprove) without sufficient evidence. Further, the financial impact of a mental injury can also be difficult to quantify without prior knowledge of both medicine and the law.
Along with your account of the accident, an injury lawyer can help you gather evidence to build a robust case such as:
- Police reports
- Witness statements
- Medical reports
- CCTV footage, if available
- Wage stubs to prove loss of earnings
- Other receipts for out-of-pocket expenses you incurred from being injured
We can also provide access to accredited mental health professionals who can assess your situation and provide expert testimony supporting your case.
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When Should I Seek Legal Advice?
Keep in mind, the personal injury statute of limitations is typically two years in Georgia per O.C.G.A § 9-3-33. We would urge you to discuss your situation with a car accident injury lawyer as soon as you are able. The sooner you act, the faster your legal team can begin to gather and preserve the evidence necessary to prove your case. Evidence can quickly vanish, and witness testimony can easily become less accurate over time.
So, it is imperative to allow a lawyer to get to work right away on your case. Missing the two-year deadline will likely prevent you from being able to pursue compensation altogether. You don’t want to miss your chance to collect a financial award that can help you move on from your accident more comfortably.
There is plenty to accomplish in two years. Remember, when negotiating with an insurer for a fair settlement, the clock is still ticking. If an insurance company is stalling or refusing to offer you a sufficient settlement, it is probably in your best interest to file a lawsuit. There is no time to waste when you are entitled to compensation after an auto accident.
Kaine Law: When You Are Hurting, We Are Here for You
For several decades, the injury attorneys at Kaine Law have been committed to helping victims of negligent drivers recover the compensation required to rebuild their lives. We are proud of the positive impact our hard work has when it comes to delivering results that make a genuine difference to our clients’ lives.
Further, our car accident injury attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis, so you pay no upfront or hourly fees. If we secure a financial recovery on your behalf, we take a percentage of it for attorney fees. If we are not successful, however, you pay nothing. So, there are no financial risks when you work with us.
Contact Kaine Law Today for Your Complimentary Consultation with a Team Member
Call for a free consultation at (404) 214-2001 today to learn more about your legal options. Let’s make things right together.
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