Subject: Inquiry About Mental Health Compensation After Car Accident
Hi everyone,
I was recently involved in a minor car accident where I was sideswiped, causing about $5,000 in damages. As a service-connected veteran with a mental health background, I sought assistance from my provider immediately due to heightened anxiety and hyper-vigilance while driving (I have developed fears of vehicles approaching from my left and right). The other party has already admitted fault, but I’ve missed work due to the repairs and my ongoing anxiety about being on the road.
Can I seek compensation for the mental distress I’m experiencing as a result of this incident?
Thank you for your guidance!
I’m sorry to hear about your accident and the distress you’re experiencing. Given your situation, it is possible to claim compensation for mental health distress resulting from the accident, especially since you are a service-connected veteran. Here are a few steps you might consider:
Document Your Symptoms: Keep a record of your anxiety, hyper-vigilance, and any other mental health symptoms you are experiencing since the accident. Note how they affect your daily life and work.
Seek Professional Help: Continue to work with your mental health provider. They can provide documentation related to your treatment, which can be important for your claim.
File a Claim: Depending on your insurance and state laws, you may be able to file a claim for emotional distress. This process can vary, so it might be beneficial to consult with a legal professional who specializes in personal injury claims.
Gather Evidence: Along with documentation of your mental health treatment, gather any other evidence related to the accident, such as police reports, witness statements, and records of missed work.
Consider Loss of Income: Be sure to document any missed work due to your anxiety, as this could also strengthen your claim.
Check with VA Resources: Since you are a service-connected veteran, reach out to veterans’ advocacy groups or the VA for support and guidance on how to proceed with your claim.
It’s important to take care of your mental health, so make sure to prioritize that throughout this process. Good luck!