Psychological Injuries

An often-overlooked element of a claim is the psychological damage that can be caused as a result of an accident. If psychological issues are not treated promptly, they can often cause more of an impact on a person’s life than the physical injuries ever have.

Psychological injury can occur as a result of any form of accident and often presents itself in the following ways: –

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Negative thoughts
• Flashbacks
• Fear/worry of being in the same situation again

People assume that it is a normal part of the healing process and will resolve once the physical injuries have resolved. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Additionally, some people find it difficult to discuss the way that they are feeling. This can make it hard to obtain a diagnosis.

However, once a diagnosis has been made then the appropriate treatment can be given.

This can take the form of: –

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
• Medication
• Counselling

Compensation can also be paid for such injuries alongside compensation for physical injuries.

It is therefore important to ensure that you tell your legal advisor and any medical expert exactly how you are feeling. Once they are aware then they can ensure that you receive the adequate treatment which is usually provided on a private-paying basis and paid for by the opponent’s insurers if liability is not in dispute.

It is incredibly important to ensure that you look after your mental wellbeing as well as your physical condition after an injury.

Any claim for compensation should be brought as soon as is practicably possible to ensure that the right treatment package is put in place at the first possible opportunity. In doing so, it is very likely to speed up your recovery and help you achieve a quicker, fuller recovery than if you were reliant on the NHS.

Whatever your injuries, don’t be put off bringing a claim if you haven’t done so straight away after the accident. Remember that you should start proceedings within 3 years of an injury and we solicitors strongly advise that you instruct us as quickly as reasonably possible after your injury.

It is important to instruct a firm of solicitors that understands your needs and has experience in such areas. This ensures that you will receive practical support as well as any other service that may be needed to aid your recovery.

If you have suffered an accident and would like some advice, please call our expert team of lawyers on 0114 218 4000 or email info@tayloremmet.co.uk.