Post traumatic stress disorder claims

This condition can occur if someone has undergone a terrifying experience, for example a violent assault or being held hostage.

It is known as PTSD for short.

PTSD can also occur as a result of witnessing a traumatic situation such as a road traffic accident.

It causes a range of physical and psychological effects and happens in any situation which causes extreme terror, fear or helplessness. It can occur at any age which includes childhood.

If you have been in a frightening situation which has resulted in PTSD then you may be able to claim compensation.

What are the symptoms of post traumatic stress disorder?

These include:

• Flashbacks
• Nightmares
• Anxiety
• Sweating
• Shaking
• Dizzy spells
• Headaches
• Tendency to anger
• Problems in forming close relationships
• Increased consumption of alcohol or taking drugs

These symptoms usually appear after a traumatic event but it is not uncommon for these to persist for several months after the event.

Situations which cause post traumatic stress disorder

PTSD can occur after any traumatic event such as:

• Military operation
• Terrorism act
• Hijacking
• Being taken hostage
• Violent crime, e.g. sexual assault
• Natural disaster e.g. earthquake
• Road traffic accident

Any of these can cause symptoms of PTSD.

An example of this is seen in servicemen/women who have been on active duty in Iraq or Afghanistan. They are under constant stress whilst on duty and are witness to situations which most people are unable to comprehend.

They appear to cope with this whilst on duty but very often, the symptoms of PTSD only manifest themselves once they return to the UK. These symptoms also appear if they have been injured whilst engaged in combat.

Whatever the cause of your PTSD, the issue remains that if it has affected your health and your quality of life then you may be entitled to compensation.

If you have to give up work then you may be compensated for the subsequent loss of earnings (and possible pension rights) as a result. It can also pay for counselling or any other support services you may need.

Making a claim for compensation for post traumatic stress disorder

Look for a solicitor or personal injury law firm who are experienced in dealing with these types of claims. Choose someone who has knowledge and expertise of the issues which are involved and the tact and sensitivity to do so.

He/she will look at the circumstances of your case and from that, will assess your claim. This will help him/her to determine the likely outcome of your claim.

The lawyer or solicitor will examine evidence from the accident or event which is responsible for your PTSD before proceeding. The claims procedure will be discussed with you and each stage explained in full.

If you want to know more about this process then visit our making a claim for compensation section.

Time limit for claiming compensation for post traumatic stress disorder

Most personal injury claims have a 3 year time limit. This starts from the date of the original accident or injury.

However, there are exceptions to the 3 year rule. Some types of claims have a longer time limit which may include claims for PTSD.

Check with your solicitor or lawyer about the time limit for your claim.