How Does Trauma Play a Role in Truck Accident Cases?

Imagine driving down the highway and you see a large commercial truck approaching in your rearview mirror. All of a sudden, the feeling of fear and anxiety take over and you start to freeze up, concerned about whether or not the truck is going to crash into you.

This is the unfortunate reality for many individuals who have been in accidents involving large trucks. They often fear the situation happening again because they’ve developed post-traumatic stress disorder and relive the moment of the accident in their head whenever a trigger arises.

This is the kind of situation that is often considered immediately following the truck accident when the survivor takes legal action. The potential impact of trauma is considered when the courts handle these types of cases.

When a truck driver is negligent, it can cause significant damage because the size of the large commercial truck. Simply being distracted for a few seconds can cause a truck driver speed into traffic, colliding into cars and causing serious injuries.

If this happens and an injured party develops post-traumatic stress disorder after the crash, they may be able to take legal action to pursue compensation for the emotional trauma and pain and suffering they experienced as a result.

The courts will most often consider whether or not trauma has been diagnosed, to what severity the trauma exists, and how the survivor’s life has been affected by it. If it is determined that trauma plays a role in the lawsuit, non-economic damages may be awarded.

In the case of truck accidents, the truck driver or trucking company’s insurance would be the defendant and it would be up to them to cover the expenses awarded by the court—or the settlement offer. However, for the plaintiff, having a strong legal advocate to help prove the trauma is important.

Our Philadelphia truck accident attorneys at The Beasley Firm work with you to help you understand what rights and options you have. Your best interests are our top priority and we always strive to guide you to the outcome you desire.

For a free consultation, call us today.