It’s a known fact that horrific accidents can result not just in physical disabilities, but psychological and emotional traumas as well.
Many of those who are otherwise physically recovered from their injuries still struggle with post traumatic stress disorder. Depression and anxiety are also common and may linger for months or even years after the actual traumatic event. If the cause of their injuries was a wreck, they may become phobic about driving or even just riding in an automobile.
When undiagnosed or untreated pre-existing conditions like bipolar disorder are present, it can complicate matters. A small percentage of patients may even be malingering in order to increase the potential for financial gain.
Malingerers are the exception to the rule, and psychologists are able to use screening and diagnostic tests to identify these behaviors. The vast majority of accident victims with psychological trauma suffer greatly and will go to great lengths seeking treatment that will heal them.
Since psychological and emotional traumas are such devastating components of many accidents, it is important to fully address them in any claims or litigation over damages. But to do that, there has to be a record of the psychological injuries, a correlation to the accident and a detailed record of the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of the patient.
Therapy can be expensive, especially if it is prolonged when the patient has difficulty resolving any lingering phobias or traumatic fears. By including all records related to the treatment in any claims for damages, the injured party stands a chance of recouping financial losses related to the psychological trauma of the accident.
