Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Illinois Injury Attorneys Representing Victims of PTSD from Car Collisions and Truck Accidents

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious psychological condition that can develop after a traumatic event, such as a car accident or truck collision. While physical injuries are often immediately visible after an accident, the emotional and psychological impact can take longer to surface. PTSD can significantly disrupt a victim’s life, leading to long-term mental health challenges. At John J. Malm & Associates, we understand the full scope of suffering that accident victims endure and are dedicated to helping them recover compensation for both their physical injuries and emotional trauma.

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can arise after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. For those involved in car or truck accidents, the sudden and violent nature of the crash can be overwhelming, often leading to the development of PTSD. The symptoms of PTSD are typically grouped into four categories:

1. Intrusive Symptoms: These include recurring, involuntary memories of the accident, flashbacks, nightmares, and intense psychological distress when reminded of the trauma.
2. Avoidance: Victims often avoid any thoughts, feelings, places, or people that remind them of the accident. For instance, someone might refuse to drive again or avoid certain routes or highways.
3. Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition: Persistent negative emotions like guilt, fear, or anger are common. Victims might feel detached from loved ones, struggle to enjoy life as they once did, or experience difficulty remembering details of the traumatic event.
4. Arousal and Reactivity: These symptoms involve being easily startled, constantly feeling “on edge,” difficulty sleeping, irritability, or having angry outbursts.

Symptoms can appear immediately after the accident or take months to manifest. The Mayo Clinic and Johns Hopkins Medicine note that untreated PTSD can worsen over time, leading to other mental health issues like depression or anxiety.

Diagnosing PTSD with the DSM-5 Criteria

PTSD is a recognized psychological disorder, but to be included in a personal injury claim, it must be diagnosed by a licensed physician, psychologist, or psychiatrist using the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition). To meet the DSM-5 criteria for PTSD, the following must be established:

• The individual was exposed to a traumatic event.
• Intrusive symptoms, such as flashbacks or nightmares, are present.
• The individual avoids memories or reminders of the event.
• The individual experiences negative changes in mood or cognition.
• Symptoms of increased arousal, such as irritability or difficulty sleeping, are observed.

A formal diagnosis is critical for any legal claim related to PTSD, as it establishes the legitimacy of the psychological harm suffered due to the accident.

PTSD After a Car Crash or Truck Accident

Car and truck accidents, particularly high-impact collisions, are leading causes of PTSD. Victims often experience severe emotional distress after such traumatic incidents, especially if the crash resulted in serious injury or death. Truck accidents, in particular, can be devastating due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles, increasing the likelihood of serious trauma.

For some victims, the emotional toll is immediate; for others, PTSD symptoms develop gradually over time. The American Psychiatric Association emphasizes that early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term mental health complications.

Legal Recourse for PTSD in Illinois Accident Cases

In Illinois, victims of car and truck accidents can seek compensation for the emotional and psychological trauma they endure, including PTSD. Compensation for PTSD falls under pain and suffering, allowing victims to recover damages for:

• Medical Expenses: This includes costs related to therapy, counseling, and medications for PTSD treatment.
• Lost Wages: If PTSD interferes with the victim’s ability to work, compensation for lost wages is available.
• Pain and Suffering: Victims can receive compensation for the emotional distress and mental health challenges that PTSD causes.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation is available if PTSD prevents the victim from enjoying daily activities or participating in hobbies they once loved.

Proving PTSD in a Personal Injury Claim

Proving PTSD in a personal injury case requires thorough evidence and expert testimony. Key components of proving PTSD include:

1. Formal Diagnosis: A licensed mental health professional must provide a diagnosis using the DSM-5 criteria, establishing the connection between the trauma and the resulting psychological harm.
2. Therapy Records: Ongoing treatment records, such as therapy sessions and counseling, are critical to demonstrating the severity and persistence of PTSD symptoms.
3. Testimony from Family and Friends: Close friends and family can offer valuable insights into how the victim’s behavior and emotional well-being have changed since the accident.
4. Expert Testimony: Mental health experts can testify to the long-term impact of PTSD, including the need for ongoing treatment and how it affects the victim’s quality of life.

The Role of PTSD Treatment in Recovery

Treatment for PTSD often involves a combination of therapies and medications. Common treatments for PTSD include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps patients recognize and change the negative thought patterns linked to their trauma.
• Exposure Therapy: Victims gradually confront and process their trauma in a safe, controlled environment, helping reduce fear and anxiety over time.
• Medications: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are often prescribed to help manage PTSD symptoms.

Treatment is often long-term, requiring months or even years of therapy to manage symptoms effectively. Early diagnosis and intervention are critical in preventing PTSD from worsening and impacting the victim’s daily life.

“PTSD can deeply affect the lives of accident victims long after the physical wounds have healed. It’s critical to seek both psychological treatment and legal representation to ensure you receive compensation for the full extent of your injuries—both physical and emotional.” – John J. Malm & Associates, Illinois truck accident lawyer

Seeking Legal Help for PTSD in Illinois

At John J. Malm & Associates, with offices in Naperville and St. Charles, we understand that PTSD is a complex and often invisible injury. Victims deserve compensation for the full scope of their suffering, including the emotional and psychological toll. Our Illinois personal injury firm works closely with medical professionals and mental health experts to build a comprehensive case, ensuring that PTSD is adequately addressed in the compensation process.

If you or a loved one is experiencing PTSD after a car or truck accident, contact our top-rated Illinois car accident attorneys today for a free consultation. We will guide you through the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.