When a commercial vehicle operator hits another motorist or a pedestrian, the results are often fatal. Those who survive such incidents may experience catastrophic injuries. In addition to a brain or spinal cord injury, severe fractures, internal organ damage and more, there’s another injury spoken of much less often — emotional trauma. If a tractor-trailer or other massive commercial vehicle hits you, it often causes Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
The effects of PTSD can cause both immediate and far-reaching adverse issues in a person’s life. If you have recently been involved in a collision with a commercial truck and are experiencing emotional trauma symptoms, you should not hesitate to reach out for support. Obtaining quality care in a timely manner may be the key to a successful recovery.
Emotional trauma symptoms following a commercial vehicle collision
Each emotional trauma patient experiences PTSD in a unique way. However, the following list shows symptoms that are common among those who have suffered or witnessed catastrophic injuries in a commercial vehicle collision:
- Hypervigilance, which presents as a perpetual flight or fight condition, thinking even the most usual sights, sounds or conditions are dangerous
- Intrusive thoughts, often so debilitating as to impede normal function
- Insomnia or nightmares
- Flashbacks of the accident
- Suicidal thoughts
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Anger
- Avoidance, such as refusing to have anything to do with motor vehicles
Whether you have one, several or all of these symptoms, it means that you may be suffering from PTSD in connection with the collision that caused your injuries. A broken bone or concussion often takes less time to heal than PTSD. In fact, symptoms of emotional trauma may last a lifetime.
Getting the help you need after a catastrophic accident
It’s always best to seek guidance from a licensed Oklahoma counselor, as well as other types of support, if you are suffering the effects of emotional trauma following a commercial vehicle collision. Catastrophic injuries like PTSD often reduce quality of life. You might be unable to work or even socialize with friends and family. By relying on experienced guidance and support, you may be able to alleviate symptoms and regain a sense of normalcy and routine in your daily life.
Post-accident care is expensive, even if you have a quality insurance plan. When a commercial vehicle operator causes a collision that results in injury, numerous entities may be liable for damages. Many recovering victims pursue litigation in civil court to seek financial recovery for their losses.
