Emotional and mental injuries are often overlooked after a personal injury accident. However, the truth is that an accident can result in years or a lifetime of trauma for the victim. For example, a car accident victim may be so traumatized that they cannot drive or sit in a passenger vehicle for a long time. This may impact their life significantly.
Fear, anxiety, and guilt are common emotional injuries after a personal injury. While these conditions are curable, they require several sessions of therapy and prescription medication, which can be expensive. You should not have to bear the costs of someone else’s negligence. Speak to an attorney today to discuss personal injury FAQ.
What are emotional distress damages?
Emotional distress damages are meant to compensate the victim for the psychological damage caused due to the accident. These damages can greatly vary since different people react to trauma differently. While some people may not be affected for more than a few days, others may be traumatized by a minor accident for several years.
What are the types of emotional injuries in a personal injury claim?
There are various types of emotional injuries in personal injury claims, including:
- Loss of consortium
- Emotional distress due to witnessing an injury or death
- Anxiety about acquiring potential disease in the future
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- The emotional distress of not being able to spend time with your child
- Post-traumatic stress disorder or PTSD
- Depression
Which accidents can lead to emotional distress?
No specific law states the type of accidents that can lead to emotional distress. Since not everyone has the same emotional strength, people react differently. Essentially, any kind of personal injury accident can lead to emotional distress and other psychological damages.
- Car accidents
- Plane crashes
- Work accidents
- Wrongful deaths
- Dog bites/attacks
Does the severity of your emotional distress affect your compensation?
Yes. While accidents affect everyone emotionally, not everyone is affected with the same severity. Some people experience short-term issues, while others experience short-term ones. It is important to document your feelings after the accident and get yourself medically diagnosed by an expert.
Your doctor’s reports and medical records will be able to demonstrate the severity of your emotional distress. Depending on your reports, your attorney can build a strong case and ask for suitable compensation. Your compensation depends on several factors, including the type of case, the severity of injuries, and the laws in your state.
It is recommended to hire an attorney to recover the highest compensation possible.
