A Truck Accident Might Leave You Eligible for Compensation for PTSD

Posted on: 18 January 2021

Given the size and weight of a commercial truck, an accident involving a truck can be terrifying. Even if you do not suffer serious injuries as a result of the truck accident, you are still likely to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to the crash. If this is the case, you may be entitled to compensation from the truck driver's insurance provider for your PTSD.

Understanding the Effects of PTSD

PTSD causes a variety of symptoms including shock, fear, and nervousness. Your PTSD can affect your ability to drive for years to come, and this can affect your quality of life and your ability to earn an income. You have every right to speak with a truck accident lawyer about whether you may be entitled to compensation for your PTSD.

Receiving Compensation for PTSD

You will need to prove that the other driver was responsible for the accident. Even if you were very traumatized by the event, you will not be entitled to compensation unless you can prove liability. Fortunately, with the help of a truck accident attorney, you should be able to easily gather the evidence necessary to receive compensation for any damages you have suffered.

Once you have proven liability, you must prove that you have suffered from PTSD in the first place. You will want to speak with a therapist so that you may be diagnosed with this disorder. You should be entitled to compensation for any medications that you may be prescribed, any therapy sessions you will need, and also for lost wages.

Challenges When Receiving Compensation for PTSD

The problem with receiving compensation for PTSD is that there are sometimes misconceptions about the condition. For example, many assume that you can only develop this condition as a result of suffering a serious accident, but minor accidents can also lead to PTSD especially when a commercial truck is involved. 

Another challenge with PTSD is that the symptoms of the condition may not emerge right away. However, if you reach a settlement with the commercial insurance provider, you might find that you are left with emotional distress without the compensation you deserve. 

PTSD can also have a cumulative effect as other events in your life take a psychological toll. However, with the help of an experienced truck accident attorney, you will learn about your legal options and will have someone assisting you in gathering evidence.

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