Claiming Compensation for PTSD After a Car or Work Accident

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can deeply disrupt lives following a road traffic or workplace accident. At our firm, we understand how overwhelming this journey can be. This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about securing personal injury PTSD compensation through a legal claim.

Understanding PTSD After an Accident

PTSD is a serious psychiatric condition that can develop after witnessing or being involved in a traumatic event such as a car crash or workplace incident. Unlike general stress, PTSD leads to long-term psychological suffering, flashbacks, nightmares, emotional numbness, and hyperarousal.

Typical PTSD symptoms after a personal injury:

• Recurring intrusive thoughts and distressing dreams
  
  

• Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to reminders
  
  

• Avoidance of places or conversations related to the trauma
  
  

• Irritability, anger outbursts, or difficulty concentrating
  
  

Such symptoms can severely impair your ability to work, maintain relationships, or enjoy daily life. If another party’s negligence contributed to your trauma, you are legally entitled to file a personal injury claim for PTSD.

When Can You Make a Personal Injury Claim for PTSD?

You are eligible to make a personal injury claim for PTSD if:

• You were involved in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence
  
  

• You were a witness to a traumatic event (such as a fatal collision)
  
  

• You were a rescuer or bystander who developed psychological trauma
  
  

• You were injured at work due to lack of health and safety compliance
  
  

Key examples include:

• Road traffic accidents involving reckless driving
  
  

• Workplace accidents due to employer negligence
  
  

• Violent incidents at work (assaults, robberies)
  
  

• Industrial disasters or fatalities witnessed on site
  
  

Your claim will require strong evidence proving both the negligence and the psychiatric harm caused.

Key Evidence to Support Your PTSD Claim

Solid documentation is vital in securing maximum personal injury PTSD compensation:

• Medical evidence: Diagnosis by a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist
  
  

• Incident reports: Police reports, workplace accident reports
  
  

• Witness statements: From colleagues, family, or bystanders
  
  

• Therapy records: Counselling sessions, CBT, EMDR documentation
  
  

• Financial losses: Proof of lost income, treatment expenses
  
  

A comprehensive medico-legal report is essential, especially when PTSD is the primary injury.

How Much Compensation Can You Receive?

PTSD compensation is assessed based on the Judicial College Guidelines and includes:

Additional special damages may include:

• Past and future loss of earnings
  
  

• Cost of ongoing therapy or medication
  
  

• Travel expenses for treatment
  
  

• Personal care or rehabilitation support
  
  

Time Limits for Making a Claim

You typically have 3 years from the date of the accident or diagnosis to make a PTSD claim under UK law. However, exceptions apply in the following cases:

• If the claimant was under 18 at the time, the 3-year limit begins at age 18
  
  

• If the claimant lacked mental capacity, time limits may be extended
  
  

• Criminal Injury Compensation Authority (CICA) claims must be filed within 2 years of the incident
  
  

Acting promptly ensures stronger evidence and avoids being barred by limitation rules.

PTSD in Workplace Injury Claims

Employers have a legal duty of care to prevent psychological harm at work. PTSD claims can arise when:

• Staff are exposed to violence or trauma without proper safety measures
  
  

• Mental health support is denied after traumatic incidents
  
  

• Overwork, bullying, or harassment lead to psychiatric breakdown
  
  

Employers who ignore mental health risks can be held liable for PTSD. A successful personal injury claim for PTSD against an employer can help you secure both financial and emotional recovery.

Road Traffic Accident PTSD Claims

PTSD from car crashes is common in:

• Head-on collisions
  
  

• Accidents involving fatalities or serious injuries
  
  

• Incidents where the claimant was trapped or feared for their life
  
  

Even passengers and witnesses can suffer trauma. Whether you were the driver or a bystander, we can help file a personal injury PTSD compensation claim against the at-fault party or their insurer.

Criminal Injury Compensation (CICA) and PTSD

If your PTSD stems from a violent crime (e.g. assault, robbery), you may be eligible for compensation through the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority. The process is distinct from civil claims and governed by statutory tariffs.

To qualify:

• Report the incident to police promptly
  
  

• Cooperate with investigation
  
  

• Apply within 2 years
  
  

• Show psychiatric harm through medical reports
  
  

Even if no one is convicted, a CICA claim can still succeed with credible evidence.

Why Choose Our Team for Your PTSD Claim

We specialise in high-value psychological injury claims. Our expert legal and medical network ensures your case is treated with compassion and technical precision. We offer:

• No win, no fee agreements
  
  

• Access to top neuropsychiatrists for evaluations
  
  

• Meticulous case preparation for maximum compensation
  
  

• Dedicated support through recovery and litigation
  
  

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

If you're suffering from PTSD due to an accident or trauma that wasn't your fault, we’re here to help you rebuild. Start your journey toward justice and secure the personal injury PTSD compensation you rightfully deserve.