It is difficult to imagine a more frightening event than a Virginia car wreck which results in serious injuries. For some survivors and victims, the memory of the impact, the noise, and the helpless chaos that followed is likely to haunt them for a long period.
Sometimes the memory doesn't go away, and the surviving victims have more and more trouble finding their way back to a normal life. If this occurs, they may be suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
When Can You Expect a Case of PTSD?
After a traumatic and violent accident in Virginia, it is normal for people to feel insecure, frightened or anxious. With time, these symptoms may fade and life will get back to normal; however, this is not always the case, especially if the event has been overwhelming or if the person - a child for instance - is particularly vulnerable. Victims may feel worse with time and may become irritable, depressed, emotional or disconnected.
What Are the Usual PTSD Symptoms?
Even though every person suffering from PTSD reacts in his or her own way, most cases include several of the following possible symptoms:
- Nightmares
- Sleeping disorder
- Flashbacks and intrusive memories
- Selective loss of memory, especially about the accident
- Intense feelings and reactions to reminders of the accident
- Loss of ambition and optimism
- Loss of interest in others, in activities and life in general
- Irritability and anger
- Depression and mistrust
- Substance abuse, drugs or alcohol
- Alienation and suicidal thoughts
Children and teenagers are particularly susceptible of suffering from PTSD and may experience additional symptoms. PTSD is painful and can ruin the life not just of the victim, but of his or her entire family. Luckily, much progress has been made towards treating PTSD efficiently.
After a serious car crash in Virginia, you need to talk to your lawyer about the compensation you may need in order to rebuild your life. If you or a loved one has been injured in a Virginia car accident, please contact our Warrenton or Culpeper office today for a free discussion of your accident case.
