Dealing With PTSD After a Car Accident
Being involved in a car accident can change your life in an instant – not just physically, but emotionally too. For many, the trauma doesn’t end once the crash scene clears.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a very real and serious consequence of auto accidents, and it can interfere with every part of your daily life, from work to relationships to even getting behind the wheel again.
If you are struggling with PTSD after a car accident in Washington State, you don’t have to face it alone. Call the Tacoma car accident attorneys at Brumley Law Firm now at (833) 832-2727 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation today.
What PTSD After a Car Accident Looks Like
PTSD symptoms often don’t show up right away. In fact, it can take days, weeks, or even months before you realize something isn’t right. Common symptoms include:
- Flashbacks or nightmares about the accident
- Anxiety while driving or riding in a car
- Avoidance of locations, people, or activities that remind you of the crash
- Mood changes such as irritability, depression, or feeling emotionally numb
- Physical symptoms like headaches, stomach issues, or difficulty sleeping
Everyone experiences trauma differently, but if these symptoms persist and impact your ability to function, it’s important to seek help.
Steps You Can Take to Heal
Healing from PTSD isn’t easy, but there are proven steps that can help you regain control of your life:
1. Seek Professional Support
Talking to a licensed therapist, counselor, or psychologist who has experience with trauma can make a world of difference. Therapies like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are often very effective for PTSD.
2. Follow a Treatment Plan
In some cases, medication can be prescribed to help manage anxiety, depression, or sleep issues associated with PTSD. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance and communicate openly about how you’re feeling during treatment.
3. Build a Strong Support System
Friends, family, and support groups can provide emotional support and practical help as you recover. Simply having someone to talk to can ease feelings of isolation and fear.
4. Avoid Self-Medicating
It might feel tempting to cope with overwhelming emotions by drinking alcohol or using substances. However, this often worsens PTSD symptoms and can lead to additional health problems.
5. Take Things One Step at a Time
Whether it’s getting back into a car, returning to work, or resuming hobbies you once enjoyed, be patient with yourself. Set small, achievable goals and celebrate your progress along the way.
Can You Be Compensated for PTSD After a Car Accident?
In Washington State, mental health conditions like PTSD can be part of a personal injury claim following a car accident. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical and therapy costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
However, proving emotional injuries often requires detailed medical records, expert opinions, and strong legal advocacy. That’s why working with a knowledgeable Tacoma injury attorney is so important.
Contact Brumley Law Firm Today
If you or someone you love is dealing with PTSD after a car accident, Brumley Law Firm is here to help. Our compassionate legal team can guide you through the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve, so you can focus on healing.
Contact us today by calling (833) 832-2727 or completing our online form to schedule your free, confidential consultation.