When you get injured in a car accident, your compensation should not just cover the economic costs of an accident. It should also help make up for the psychological trauma you experienced as a result of the crash. This is why it is often possible to file a claim for anxiety after you have been involved in a crash. Our Westchester County car accident attorneys can help you do this.
When Should I File a Claim for Anxiety?
You should file a claim for anxiety if you feel like the accident has caused you anxiety. It’s that simple. Do not worry that your symptoms are too mild and that you do not deserve compensation for them. You went through a traumatic experience and you have the right to pursue damages. It’s a good idea to sue for compensation if you have experienced:
- Trouble sleeping
- Panic attacks
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks to the accident
- Feelings of detachment or despair
What Can Help Prove a Claim for Anxiety?
Insurance companies are unlikely to hear that you have anxiety and offer up a settlement. You need to have some proof when you make a claim for anxiety. Some people do not show physical signs when they are being affected by anxiety, but others do. If you have lost weight, developed skin irritations, or noticed other outward evidence that something is wrong, that can be used as evidence.
It is often a good idea to use the testimony of a mental health professional. If your doctor can convincingly testify about your symptoms and what you have experienced due to the crash, that can help convince a jury that you deserve more compensation.
Is Emotional Distress or Anxiety Covered By My Own Insurance?
In New York, you usually have to go through your own insurance coverage first when you get injured in an accident. You can sue another driver when your coverage does not cover all of your medical bills and when you want to pursue non-economic damages, like compensation for anxiety.
So you will have to file a lawsuit when you make a claim for anxiety in New York. You also have to show two things. You need to show that you were not at fault for the collision and you need to show that you suffered serious injuries, like broken bones, the loss of a sense like hearing or vision, or permanent disfigurement.
Do I Need an Attorney?
You are not required to hire an attorney, but an experienced lawyer can do a lot to help you with your case. A lawyer from our firm can:
- Calculate fair compensation
- Negotiate with insurers on your behalf
- Connect you with expert witnesses and mental health professionals
- Build a case that can succeed in court, if necessary
- Gather evidence needed to strengthen your claim for anxiety
Contact Our Firm Today
When you are ready to file a claim for anxiety, contact Hausman & Pendzick. We can offer you a free consultation and tell you more about your legal options. We are ready to help you fight for the compensation that you deserve.