Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder after a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcycle accident victims not only suffer physical injuries, but in many cases, find it difficult to deal with the psychological consequences.

The psychological impact of a motorcycle accident may continue to affect a victim even long after the physical injuries have healed. A motorcycle accident victim may suffer depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) months or years after the accident. An accident victim may develop a phobia or anxiety, affecting the ability to work. As a result, the person may suffer financial losses. Pain and suffering experienced by a victim may establish grounds for a personal injury claim.

Proving Mental and Psychological Injuries

In order to receive compensation for pain and suffering, you must prove that your pain and suffering are a direct result of the accident. Proving psychological or mental distress becomes even more difficult when your physical injuries are not as severe as your mental injuries. The insurance company may look for an opportunity to decline your claim or reduce your compensation amount.

It is important to keep a record of your prescriptions and receipts. If your mental distress requires long-term treatment or requires you to take days off from work, keep all related documents. Just claiming that you are mentally distressed as a result of the accident will not suffice. You will need to present enough evidence in favor of your claim.