Unfortunately, car accidents are common in Florida and across the United States. The good news is that most of these motor vehicle accidents do not lead to a fatality. The bad news, however, is that even a minor fender-bender can result in long-term adverse physical and psychological effects.
5 Psychological Effects That You Could Suffer After a Florida Car Accident
We often think of the physical, visible injuries after a car crash (lacerations, bruising, swelling), but the naked eye cannot see some of the most debilitating injuries. After a traumatic event like a car crash, victims could suffer emotional pain that trumps all of their physical injuries.
It was previously assumed that people who suffered more severe injuries were more likely also to suffer psychiatric complications, but we now know that is not necessarily the case. Even motor vehicle accidents that cause minor physical injury can trigger significant psychological complications in victims, such as:
Anxiety
Emotional reactions to car accidents can lead to the development of new fears or phobias, such as fear of riding in a car. The mere thought of getting behind the wheel or into a vehicle could trigger psychological distress. This severe anxiety could last for weeks, months or longer, depending on the victim.
Depression
Lacking the ability to find enjoyment in everyday activities or withdrawing from social events and human contact could signal that you are suffering from depression.
Sleep Problems
Disrupted sleep patterns, insomnia, and nightmares in the aftermath of a car accident are not uncommon in the first few weeks. However, if these sleep problems continue to persist long after a crash, it may be time to discuss your situation with a psychiatrist or psychologist.
Stress
Like other types of traumatic events, a car accident can increase stress hormone levels long-term. When we are stressed, our work and personal relationships may suffer.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
If it has been months since the accident and you are still feeling anxious, thinking about the incident regularly, or avoiding some driving situations, you should seek help from a mental health professional who is qualified in treating post-traumatic stress disorder.
The psychological injuries suffered in an auto accident should not be taken lightly. They could interfere with a victim’s ability to drive, go to work, and return to their daily lives. The first step to recovering from the psychological trauma of an accident is to acknowledge that you are having a problem and seek the help you need. Treatment for psychological damages may include breathing or relaxation exercises, talk therapy, or prescription medications to relieve anxiety and improve sleep.
Unfortunately, the treatments for the emotional and psychological effects of a car accident in Florida can cost just as much, if not more, than treatments for physical injuries. Thankfully, Florida Courts allow victims of car accidents caused by negligence to file a claim to recover these damages in the form of monetary compensation.
Contact an Experienced Auto Accident Attorney in St. Petersburg, Florida
Car accidents trigger mental anguish in thousands of victims on a daily basis. If your feelings of anxiety or unease do not dissipate after your car accident, you may be able to seek compensation for emotional distress. However, these cases are subjective, and it can be challenging to recover a fair settlement without the help of an experienced car accident attorney.
If you have been in a car accident in the St. Petersburg, Florida area, Marsalisi Law can fight for your right to fair compensation. Call (727) 800-5052 or submit a completed contact form to schedule your free consultation today.
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