PTSD Due To A Motor Vehicle Collision: Are You Or A Loved One A Victim Of ...

When thinking of wounds from an automobile accident, most people think of the physical injuries: cuts, bruises, soft tissue trauma and broken bones. Unfortunately, a serious injury that is frequently overlooked after a car wreck is Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD is generally associated with soldiers returning from war, but according to a book published by the American Psychological Association called “After the Crash: Assessment and Treatment of Motor Vehicle Accident Survivors,” automobile accidents are the leading cause of PTSD in the general population.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

• Re-experiencing the traumatic event (flashbacks, nightmares, physical reactions to reminders of the event such as pounding heart, nausea, sweating)
• Avoidance and emotional numbing ( avoiding activities, inability to remember events of the trauma, feeling detached from others)
• Increased Arousal (difficulty sleeping, irritability or outbursts of anger, difficulty concentrating, being on constant “red alert”, feeling jumpy)
• Anger
• Substance abuse
• Depression, hopelessness, thoughts of suicide
• Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach problems, chest pain

Other non-symptomatic signs to look for following an accident are difficulties on the job or in school, problems maintaining friendships, and not being able to enjoy leisure time. Compounding the difficulty of diagnosing PTSD, these signs and symptoms do not always appear immediately following an accident. Sometimes it takes months before there are any signs of PTSD.

What Are The Treatments For PTSD?

Treatments for PTSD are varied, depending on the symptoms the victim is experiencing, but can involve individual therapy, anger management, communication skills, relaxation techniques, Eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), medications, family counseling, sleep therapy, and many others.

The Consequences Of PTSD Going Untreated

Untreated, PTSD can have far-reaching consequences for the victim, their families and society. PTSD can negatively impact a person’s ability to learn as well as their social and emotional development. Additionally, physical symptoms caused by the emotional distress can often present much later and can significantly influence the course of someone’s life.

If you or a loved one has suffered PTSD due to the negligence of another, you are sure to have immediate questions. There are answers to some of your most important questions right here on our website. For more information, you should also download our FREE book, “10 Essential Steps You Must Take To Protect Your Injury Claim, How You Can Escape The Personal Injury Trap, The Ultimate Guide To Accident Cases in Missouri and Kansas,” right here on our website.

At Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys, we have been representing victims of motor vehicle collisions, including those who have suffered PTSD as a result of auto accidents, for more than 15 years. We understand that a serious medical injury can have devastating consequences and we are dedicated to thoroughly representing the victims of such injuries every step of the way.

Contact the experienced lawyers at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys at (816) 471-5111 for a FREE consultation with no obligation.