Everyone thinks about the physical consequences of car accidents: fractures, concussions, scrapes, and bruises. However, fewer people consider the emotional and mental effects of collisions caused by the shock, noise, and sudden impact.

Many of our car collision clients here at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC have come to us with anxiety issues that linger from their car accidents. We have helped them collect compensation for these issues, and we can help you, too.

Here is what you need to know:

Can You Claim Anxiety After a Car Accident?

South Carolina law recognizes anxiety as a form of emotional distress and a coverable injury. Symptoms of collision-induced anxiety generally include panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or a fear of driving, which can severely impact your quality of life.

But to claim compensation for your anxiety, you need to prove the link between the accident and your mental condition and further demonstrate that you did not suffer from your anxiety before the collision.

How Do You Prove Anxiety for a Car Accident Claim?

To prove that your anxiety stemmed from your collision and not from a pre-existing condition, you will likely need previous medical records, testimony from a mental health professional, ongoing treatment documentation, and perhaps a personal journal of your mental health. The sooner you begin seeking treatment for your symptoms, the better: if you delay your treatment, the court could question the validity of your emotional distress claim.

What Types of Anxiety Treatments Are Covered?

If another driver’s negligence caused your accident and your resulting anxiety symptoms, you can seek compensation for therapy, prescription medications, or a combination of both. When you file a successful insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit, the at-fault driver’s insurance company will cover your physical and emotional injuries, including your anxiety treatments.

Why Is Seeking Legal Help Important for Anxiety Claims?

Unfortunately, when you file your claim to cover your medication or therapy, the at-fault driver’s insurance companies might downplay the severity of your mental health damage or deny your issues altogether. Because you cannot quantify emotional injuries like you could with physical injuries, many accident victims face uphill battles when seeking compensation for psychological conditions.

An experienced attorney can gather the necessary evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and protect your rights throughout the entire legal process. You deserve fair compensation to cover treatment costs and the impact of your anxiety symptoms on your life.

Fair Treatment for Your Post-Accident Anxiety with the Charleston Car Accident Lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC

Trust the dedicated and compassionate Charleston car accident lawyers at Rogers, Patrick, Westbrook & Brickman LLC to fight for your interests and help you demand the compensation you need. We can take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your mental health. Call us at 843-727-6500 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. Our Charleston, Mt. Pleasant, Aiken, and Columbia, South Carolina offices serve clients all throughout South Carolina.