Accidents that are particularly frightening or traumatic can lead to a psychological condition known as post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. The distressing nature of a motorcycle accident in Albuquerque can result in deep and lasting emotional trauma. Riders who suffer from PTSD after accidents may qualify for financial compensation for related losses.
What Is PTSD?
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that stems from living through or witnessing a traumatic event. This can include any terrifying or life-threatening situation, such as a serious motorcycle crash. It is a psychological problem that can have a major impact on an individual’s daily life by inflicting serious symptoms.
Symptoms of PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder from a motorcycle accident can look different for different people. If and how it affects a crash victim can depend on the individual, the severity of the crash and the types of injuries suffered.
Living through a life-threatening or dangerous accident could lead to PTSD symptoms such as:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Hyperarousal, or being easily startled
- Nightmares or flashbacks
- Recurring distressing thoughts
- Depression
- Emotional withdrawal
- Low interest in activities
- Increased irritability
- Mood swings
- Trouble concentrating
- Difficulty sleeping
- Avoidance of certain situations
Post-traumatic stress disorder can take time to develop. A motorcycle accident survivor may notice the signs and symptoms of PTSD in the days or weeks following a crash. The symptoms may last weeks, months or even years, depending on the severity of the disorder.
How Is PTSD Treated?
Effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder typically includes a combination of medication and therapy. Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help a motorcycle accident victim work through what he or she is feeling and find healthy ways to cope with triggers. Medication may be prescribed to ease particularly severe symptoms, such as chronic anxiety, panic attacks or depression.
Can You Receive Financial Compensation for PTSD Following a Motorcycle Accident in New Mexico?
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a compensable type of loss or damage in a New Mexico motorcycle accident case. It falls under the category of “pain and suffering” as a type of non-economic damage.
A motorcycle accident victim who is suffering from emotional, mental or psychological trauma may be entitled to compensation for several related losses, including:
- Mental health care
- Medical treatments
- Lost wages and reduced capacity to earn
- Emotional distress and mental anguish
- Loss of enjoyment or quality of life
- Loss of consortium
Evaluating an intangible loss such as PTSD can be tricky. Insurance companies have their own methods for calculating how much psychological trauma is worth. It is important, however, not to accept a settlement before you’ve spoken to a motorcycle accident attorney about the true value of your case.
How Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help With a PTSD Claim?
PTSD can be debilitating in the aftermath of a traumatic motorcycle accident in New Mexico. If you are experiencing this mental health condition after a crash, you may need assistance from a motorcycle accident lawyer to get the financial compensation you deserve.
An Albuquerque injury lawyer can help you prove this invisible injury with clear evidence of your emotional pain and suffering in connection to a PTSD diagnosis. After calculating an accurate case value, your attorney can pursue a suitable settlement or judgment award during the insurance process or a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf.If you’re suffering from PTSD after a motorcycle accident in New Mexico, contact The Fine Law Firm to schedule a free consultation and discuss your legal options with a qualified attorney.