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Car Accident Lawyer Salt Lake City UT
When it comes to car accidents, there are a variety of very painful and serious injuries that a victim may endure. Depending on if there were fatalities, or it was otherwise a particularly traumatic collision, there can be mental and emotional injuries as well. After a car accident, a victim may have newly developed fears, anxieties, or depression. While these symptoms may not be readily visible externally, these should be treated along with all other forms of physical wounds.
Here in this article, we have answered common questions victims of car crashes have about psychological trauma. For more information about obtaining compensation for these injuries, don’t hesitate to contact a car accident lawyer in Salt Lake City UT.
Should I tell my doctor about my mental and emotional symptoms?
Absolutely. You should express with your doctor all the types of aches and pains you are experiencing post car accident, even including mental and/or emotional difficulties. While your doctor may ask how you are feeling after such a collision in casual conversation during a visit, many patients are nervous to share such delicate information. Since the body system is all connected, being forthcoming about your emotional health too can help heal your entire well being. Your doctor may recommend therapy or self-care activities to do at home to help tend to your body and mind.
How do I know if what I am feeling is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
Post-traumatic stress disorder can develop in any person who has gone through a triggering event. By definition, PTSD is a condition of mental and emotional stress due to experiencing psychological shock or trauma. The symptoms associated with PTSD can interfere with a person’s ability to function in everyday life. If you are wondering if PTSD could be what is going on, consider speaking to your doctor. The most common symptoms of PTSD are listed as follows:
- Nightmares
- Flashback of traumatic event
- Triggered by environments which remind you of event
- Avoiding certain situations
- Changes in beliefs and confidence of self
- Hyperarousal (feeling pent up, alert)
- Insomnia
- Difficulty concentrating
- Being started easily (by noises or surprises)
- Appetite fluctuations
- Withdrawing from friends & family
- Panic attacks
If I decide to go to therapy, what should I expect from my first visit?
Often times, the first visit entails the therapist getting to know you better and the specific symptoms you are experiencing. It is the role of a therapist to be non-judgemental, unbiased and supportive as you heal from the traumatizing event. Many people can be nervous about what to expect from therapy. While expressing feelings can be difficult, the intention is for a person to be able to work through these painful emotions and hopefully arrive at a state of acceptance and peace.
Can a victim of a car accident sue the other driver for emotional trauma?
It is possible to file a civil lawsuit in Salt Lake City UT against the driver at-fault for emotional injuries. However, it must be proven that the condition (anxiety disorder, depression, PTSD, etc.) was in fact a result of the collision itself. Victims who are considering filing such a lawsuit should consult with a car accident lawyer who is familiar with car accident injuries including emotional trauma.
To arrange a free consultation with a car accident lawyer Salt Lake City UT drivers trust, contact Rasmussen & Miner today.