Auto Accident Injuries: Not Just Physical Harm

When a car accident is caused by the other driver, they probably owe you compensation. That compensation covers several types of damages. In the case of auto accidents, damages can be tied to medical treatment costs, vehicle repairs, time missed from work, and other things. One form of damage may be overlooked, and that is the emotional strain of dealing with an accident. Read on to find out more.

An Overlooked Issue

Even though the need for maintaining a healthy mental outlook is slowly taking hold, many accident victims may be reluctant to admit that a car accident has taken a toll on their mental health. It should not be surprising that an auto accident could impact a victim's mental health. Almost any sort of traumatic event can cause victims to experience several forms of mental damage. If you were in an accident, you might be experiencing these symptoms:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Eating disturbances
• Sleeping disorders
• Mood changes, moodiness
• Anger

What's worse, many mental issues like the ones listed above can also affect one physically. That results in a boomerang effect of an accident that causes physical harm which then causes mental issues which can go on to cause additional physical issues for a victim.

You Can be Paid for Your Mental Distress

Don't be shy about getting paid for the emotional trauma of an accident. Not only is it acceptable to be paid for this type of damage but it has a category all its own known as pain and suffering. While physical injuries may one day heal, however, many people have much more of a challenge getting a handle on emotional problems after an accident. It's vital you be compensated so that you can seek help and better your mental health as much as possible after an accident.

What to Do

Begin keeping up with all your damages after an accident. That means keeping up with medical paperwork, time missed from work, vehicle repair estimates, and finally, your mental health. Many personal injury lawyers have their clients keep journals while they recover from their injuries and that is an excellent way to keep up with emotional struggles as well.

Speak to a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible so they can guide you towards being paid what you deserve for the accident. In many cases, you cannot depend on the at-fault driver's insurer to do the right thing — you must take other actions to ensure payment. Speak to an attorney and get started on your journey back to good physical and mental health right away.

For more information, contact a company like Jones, Boykin & Associates, P.C.