Can You Sue for Mental Health Issues After an Accident?
Automobile accidents are some of the most common personal injury cases we see at Franco Law Firm. Some damages and injuries are easy to see and prove, such as a broken bone or head injury. You can easily get an x-ray or brain scan allowing your doctor to prove your injury, and letting you claim restitution for your injuries. However, it can be harder to prove mental health related issues after an accident, but you can still take legal action.
Some mental health related issues that can arise after an accident can include depression, thoughts of suicide, anxiety, fear, and mood swings. Sometimes these mental health issues can go away after time, however, some of them are more severe. For example, many people experience Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) after accidents. PTSD is a mental health disorder that affects people who have experienced life-threatening events. Some of the symptoms of PTSD include reliving the event in your mind and avoiding certain places or situations that remind you of the event. It can cause isolation, lack of interest, and even complicate relationships and careers. Seeking medical help is important in order to recover. Medical documentation and a doctor’s note can also be helpful if you wish to take legal action over emotional distress.
Although it may vary from state to state, there are certain laws regarding emotional distress after an accident. In the state of Florida, a person may claim emotional distress if the person inflicting the distress acted recklessly and outrageously to cause the distress and that the emotional distress is severe. The most important step to help your attorneys prove your mental health issues after an accident is evidence of the injured party seeking medical help for mental health related issues.
It can be difficult to prove mental health related issues after an accident, but not impossible. If you or your loved ones, want to seek retribution due to emotional distress, Franco Law Firm is here to help. To learn more about our services and to schedule a free consultation, please call us at (813) 872-0929.
