After a serious accident, it is easy to focus on physical harm like broken bones, concussions, or back injuries. However, emotional and mental trauma can also seriously affect a person’s life. Different types of emotional distress may develop after a traumatic accident. If you are filing a personal injury claim, understanding whether you can include your psychological injuries is crucial to protect your future and rights. Continue reading for more information and consult a skilled Prince George’s County injury lawyer today.

What Are Psychological Injuries?

Psychological injuries are a type of emotional or mental harm that occurs after being involved in a severely distressing or overwhelming accident or experience. When a traumatic event occurs, the shock can affect the body’s stress response system and trigger lasting emotional and psychological symptoms. For example, the brain releases a surge of adrenaline to help you survive immediate danger, known as the fight-or-flight response. After the threat passes, the nervous system can remain stuck in high alert, causing the body to remain in a heightened state of stress even after the danger has passed. Situations like these can lead to lasting emotional damage and life disruptions.

Common psychological injuries include:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Depression
  • Panic attacks
  • Phobias, such as a fear of driving after a car accident
  • Sleep disorders and nightmares
  • Emotional distress

Emotional trauma can occur even when physical injuries appear relatively minor, and they can significantly interrupt an individual’s ability to function during everyday life.

Can Psychological Injuries Be Part of a Personal Injury Claim in MD?

Yes, psychological injuries can be included in a personal injury claim. Maryland law may allow individuals to seek compensation for emotional harm connected to an accident, generally under non-economic damages. This is often known as “pain and suffering.”

Maryland generally does not recognize a standalone claim for negligent infliction of emotional distress, so emotional injuries are often pursued as part of another personal injury claim.

What Evidence is Needed to Prove Psychological Injuries?

Even when a physical injury is present, you need compelling evidence to establish your mental harm and your need for compensation. Relevant proof can come in many forms, including the following.

  • Medical records
  • Therapy notes
  • Mental health diagnoses
  • Prescription records
  • Testimony from mental health professionals
  • Statements from family members, coworkers, and employers about behavioral changes
  • First-hand accounts of the days, weeks, and months following the incident

Insurance companies often attempt to dispute emotional injury claims by arguing that symptoms are exaggerated, the mental health condition existed before the accident, or that the emotional injuries are unrelated. Strong documentation can help counter these defenses and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

For more information and skilled representation, set up your free consultation with a knowledgeable attorney at Miller Berman today.