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Motorcycle accidents and post-traumatic stress disorder

Motorcycle accidents do not often end with riders walking away without serious injuries. Many collisions cause victims to suffer post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD does not always show up right away. It can take weeks, months and in some case, years. Immediate and follow-up medical treatment is necessary to mitigate the seriousness of any physical trauma. Ongoing self-observation can lead to early diagnosis and treatment of PTSD to improve the overall outcome. 

Many people find the emotional stress of motorcycle accidents just as hard to manage as the physical injuries. PTSD ranges in severity. Though many people who end up with the condition eventually recover, some accident victims do not. PTSD causes behavioral, emotional and sleep disturbances and can make it more challenging for accident victims to recover from any physical injuries they may also have.

PTSD sufferers can sue for damages 

Motorcycle accidents in Hayward are often harrowing experiences that cause victims to relieve the experience repeatedly and randomly. It is not unusual for individuals to avoid motorcycles and cars altogether for fear of having to experience the incident or a triggering event. 

Motorcyclists who end up suffering from PTSD can sue the party they believe is responsible for their injuries for compensation. In order for a successful claim, plaintiffs must prove their emotional suffering is a direct cause of the accident and that the condition interferes with their ability to resume their normal activities and responsibilities. For example, an accident victim who misses work because PTSD causes him or her extreme anxiety at the thought of being on a motorcycle or in a vehicle may qualify to receive compensation from the negligent party. 

It is important for those who are in motorcycle accidents to watch themselves for signs of PTSD and to report any unusual symptoms to their doctors. They should also document their concerns and be wary of how insurers tend to treat invisible injuries.

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