Motor vehicle accidents are often traumatic and nerve-racking events. Because of this, they can have long-lasting impacts on the victim’s physical and psychological health.
In Florida, automobile mishaps cause psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). When victims experience the trauma of a Florida car accident, they may be owed financial compensation.
This is especially true if the mishap resulted from another driver’s negligence. Even after you have recovered from any physical injuries, you may experience the lasting effects of your psychological trauma.
Make sure to speak with a skilled legal professional following a Florida car accident. No matter the harm you sustained, you can pursue a legal claim to recover damages from the at-fault party.
Understanding Trauma in Florida Car Accidents
Trauma is a natural response by the human body to dangerous, fearful, or life-threatening situations. Physical injuries and motor vehicle collisions are incredibly intense and emotionally nerve-racking.
Because of this, car accidents are very likely to result in mental trauma. This is particularly true if the victim suffers a serious physical injury from the crash.
A traumatic event can manifest in the victim’s body in many ways. Common examples include the following symptoms:
- Persistent headaches
- Muscle tension
- Tiredness and fatigue
- Anxiety, panic disorder, and depression
- Inability to concentrate
Trauma can also cause behavioral side effects. These may include unexpected shifts in mood or personality.
The victim may also attempt to avoid situations reminiscent of the traumatic incident. Following the trauma of a Florida car accident, the victim may feel too afraid to drive or ride in a car.
In some cases, victims only experience trauma symptoms briefly after the event. In other instances, these problematic conditions may last for years after the Florida car accident.
If you have suffered any of these common trauma symptoms following a motor vehicle accident, speak with a tort attorney. Some victims may require professional care through therapy or other restorative processes.
What Causes Trauma in a Florida Car Accident?
Many factors involved in a Florida car accident can cause victims to be traumatized. When collisions occur at high speeds, those inside the vehicles may be thrown around.
Often, drivers and passengers collide with the interior surfaces of the vehicle. In some cases, those involved may suffer significant lacerations from broken glass.
Your body may experience a heightened sympathetic nervous system even if you are not physically harmed. This can result in your body becoming incredibly tense, sometimes known as the “fight or flight” response.
The immediate aftermath of a motor vehicle accident can also result in trauma. For instance, you may see the physical injuries other people in the crash sustained.
Many victims of car crashes also see the mental and physical distress of the others involved. These sights can result in severe anxiety and cause long-lasting trauma.
Some victims report trauma caused by their sensory experiences. These include sights, smells, and noises from the crash. The traumatic nature of these events can result in nightmares or flashbacks for some victims.
Recovering After a Florida Car Accident
Fortunately, those who have suffered the trauma of a car accident have legal options. When a collision results from someone’s reckless or careless driving, those who are negatively affected can file a legal claim for damages.
It is vital to consult with a car accident attorney in Florida about the specifics of your case. Some of the most common options for Florida car accident victims include:
- Filing a claim through the other driver’s insurance provider
- Filing a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party
- Pursuing financial recovery through your insurance policy
A knowledgeable Florida lawyer will carefully assess the circumstances of your motor vehicle collision and help you determine the best path forward. A legal professional will do the following:
- Establish which party holds legal liability
- Collect valuable evidence
- Calculate appropriate damages
- Negotiate on your behalf with insurance adjusters
- Seek care to help with your trauma
- Represent you in court
It is challenging to cope with the trauma from a Florida collision. Let a skilled professional help you.
Speak with a Florida Tort Attorney
When you need representation following a Florida car crash, contact Schrier Law Group. We will gladly provide a free consultation to explore your legal options. Reach out to speak with a member of our friendly staff today!
