Every year, more than 260,000 motor vehicle accidents take place throughout Florida. In several cases, victims are forced into area hospitals with devastating injuries. Victims harmed in these horrific incidents are often forced to spend tens of thousands of dollars on medical treatment for their injuries. As if the financial and physical consequences were not enough, victims often suffer devastating mental and emotional consequences as well.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Statistics show that approximately 9 percent of motor vehicle accident victims develop post-traumatic stress disorder in the United States each year. This response can cause victims to suffer overwhelming mental and emotional devastation. In some cases, victims develop immediate symptoms while others can take several weeks or months to develop. Victims who develop these symptoms often experience a variety of reactions, including:

• Feeling fearful
• Having increased anxiety with a rapid heart rate
• Feeling on edge, jumpy, and being startled more easily
• Being more watchful or suspicious of surroundings
• Avoiding various situations

In some cases, the overwhelming consequences make it difficult for victims to engage in certain activities, refrain from traveling in vehicles, and may even avoid social interaction completely.

Treatments for PTSD

Individuals who experience these devastating consequences may be able to undergo various forms of treatment. Thankfully, there are various trusted and reliable treatment options available for victims with PTSD. Some of the most common treatment options include:

Exposure Therapy: This therapy helps individuals by exposing them to various fearful situations so they can confront their fears and move forward.

Cognitive Therapy: This treatment option helps victims by teaching them skills to change their thinking patterns and how they respond to various situations.

Behavior Therapy: This form of therapy allows victims to work with professionals to identify behaviors that are potentially self-destructive and unhealthy. This treatment focuses on helping victims address problems in different manners.

Medication: Many victims who suffer overwhelming mental and emotional pain and suffering turn to medication to help alleviate the fear and anxiety they experience.

No matter what treatment option a victim chooses, it is crucial to begin treatment early on to ensure they have the best chances of overcoming their trauma.

You are Not Alone

Florida car accident attorneys at Sheftall & Associates are dedicated to helping victims recover from these devastating experiences. It is crucial for victims to recognize that they are not alone. Thousands of people across Florida suffer overwhelming fear and anxiety as a result of motor vehicle accidents.  For this reason, we strive to help those harmed recover the maximum amount of compensation available to alleviate the costs of medical treatment and various other damages they face from their accidents. Working with our reputable accident attorneys will ensure those harmed have the best bet at recovering from their accidents. If you were injured in an accident, due to the reckless or negligent actions of another driver, contact our law firm in Florida at 904-647-2296 to explore legal options available for you.