For many, sustaining an injury can be overwhelming and upsetting, especially when you are hurt due to the negligence of another party. However, as time progresses, you may find that the physical injuries will heal, though the emotional damage of these injuries can leave you struggling. As such, if you have been diagnosed with PTSD as a result of the injury you’ve suffered, the following blog explores what you should know about your rights during these matters, including the importance of connecting with an experienced Tom Green County, Texas personal injury lawyer to help you in the fight for the best possible outcome for your circumstances.
What Is PTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that those who have endured or witnessed a particularly harrowing, traumatic, or stressful event may be diagnosed with following the incident. There is a wide array of incidents that can cause PTSD, like auto collisions, abuse, robberies, natural disasters, and combat, among others.
Not everyone who endures a traumatic event will be diagnosed with this disorder. While many may suffer acute symptoms, only those with prolonged symptoms can be diagnosed. As such, some of the most common signs and symptoms that someone is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Reliving the event through flashbacks, triggers, or nightmares
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Feeling on edge
- Difficulty sleeping
- Avoiding things that remind the victim of the event
- Changes in mood
- Disinterest in activities and hobbies
PTSD can be incredibly disruptive, making it difficult to live your normal life.
How Do I Fight for These Damages?
If you are diagnosed with PTSD following an injury caused by the negligence of another person, it’s imperative to understand how to proceed in the fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Typically, when you are injured, you can file a claim for the monetary losses you’ve suffered, like medical bills or lost wages. These are known as economic damages, as they reflect quantifiable losses. However, you can also seek compensation for the mental and emotional toll the injury has taken. As such, you can file a claim for non-economic damages, like pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment of life, and humiliation. PTSD is considered a non-economic damage.
While non-economic damages can be awarded, it’s imperative to understand that recovering these damages can be incredibly difficult. Unfortunately, you’ll find that, because these losses are subjective, the negligent party and their insurance will do everything possible to reduce the value of your claim. As such, connecting with an experienced attorney is critical in the fight for the compensation you deserve.
When you need assistance following an incident that has left you emotionally scarred, the team at the Mathis Law Firm, PLLC, is here to help. We understand how overwhelming these matters can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you during these complex times.
