Can a motorcycle accident cause PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder)? Yes, you can develop this psychiatric disorder after experiencing a traumatic event, such as a motorcycle accident. People involved in motorcycle crashes can suffer physical injuries, such as road rash or burns, pain, anxiety, PTSD, and other emotional and psychological distress.
Call the Law Office of Jason R. Schultz, PC at 404-474-0804 to schedule a free consultation.
What is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)
People often misuse the term PTSD as a catch-all for any emotional distress that follows a traumatic event. Generally, a PTSD diagnosis after a motorcycle accident may require meeting these criteria:
- Exposure to death, threat of death, serious injury, or threat of severe injury. The exposure can be direct or indirect.
- Persistently re-experiencing the traumatic event as a reaction to things that trigger memories of the event. Nightmares and flashbacks are common qualifying re-experiences.
- Avoidance of things that one fears could trigger a reaction to the traumatic event.
- New or worse feelings of negative emotions or social withdrawal.
- Sleep, mood or behavior changes.
- Symptoms last longer than a month and affect your ability to work or socialize. The signs must have no other known cause.
Can a Motorcycle Accident Cause PTSD?
The human psyche is capable of sustaining damage from traumatic events. About one out of four people who suffered injuries in crashes developed PTSD in the months after a motor vehicle accident, one study found.
How PTSD Can Impact Your Life
PTSD may contribute to a range life changes, including:
- Divorce
- Job loss
- Financial crisis
- Depression
- Substance abuse
- Inability to maintain relationships and employment
Getting Compensation for PTSD
If you suffered injuries and PTSD in a motorcycle accident, you may qualify to get compensation for damages. Typical accident damages include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disability or decreased earning potential
- Ongoing costs related to physical injuries
The mental anguish and emotional distress of your condition can also be part of your settlement. Another category of damages is the loss of enjoyment of life, for people who can no longer do things – like ride a motorcycle – that used to bring them joy.
People at the Highest Risk for PTSD
According to a 2009 study, the groups most at risk of PTSD after a motor vehicle accident were:
- People with a history of depression
- People who experienced a previous violent injury
- Those in a crash in which someone died
- Women
Call Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
Yes, a motorcycle accident can cause PTSD. Contact the Law Office of Jason R. Schultz, PC and we will evaluate the circumstances of your motorcycle accident. We will also review your claim with you and help you pursue a claim for PTSD and other damages. Call us today at 404-474-0804 for a free consultation.