Depression After a Semi-Truck Accident in South Carolina: Can I Get Additional Compensation?
According to a study published by Transportation Research, up to 50% of semi-truck accident survivors may struggle with mental disorders. Another study by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that depression is quite common among road traffic accident survivors. If you’re struggling with depression after your semi-truck accident in South Carolina, you should know that you’re not alone. But can you receive additional compensation for this “non-economic damage?”
Depression Can Last for Years After Your Truck Accident
Whether you’re recovering from a recent truck accident or your crash happened years ago, you should know that depression can be surprisingly long-lasting for victims. One study found that even after five years, traffic accident victims still tended to have increased levels of anxiety, fear, exhaustion, and other psychological symptoms associated with depression.
In other words, you might not want to dismiss your depression as a temporary issue that will “wear off” with time. Your depression could become a lasting aspect of your life for many years after your truck accident, and it may be worth exploring options for compensation. This compensation can help you pay for treatment, which may be crucial as you try to carry on with your life as best as possible.
Depression Is Often Linked With Injuries
The NIH states that depression may be more common among semi-truck accident victims who have suffered injuries. It is not difficult to see the connection here, as a severe injury can affect the quality of your life in various ways. Even a relatively moderate injury like a fracture or whiplash can leave you bedridden for weeks, preventing you from experiencing the things you love.
Permanent injuries can heighten depression in various ways. First, a serious injury can end your career, thereby destroying your sense of purpose and self-worth. An injury can also make certain activities impossible, such as sports or hiking. These experiences might have been very important to you, and they may never be possible again. Finally, serious injuries can lead to financial hardships, further adding to your stress and depression.
How to Pursue Additional Compensation for Your Depression
The link between depression and physical injuries is important. Without an underlying physical injury, it may be difficult to pursue any compensation whatsoever for your crash. This is why it is so important to see a doctor after your accident, even if you feel like nothing is wrong. Even if your medical records highlight something as simple as a bruise or laceration, this can allow you to pursue compensation for depression at a later date.
Can a Truck Accident Lawyer in South Carolina Help Me?
If you’re struggling with depression after your semi-truck accident, consider seeking treatment. A mental health professional may be able to guide you through treatment while also providing you with an official diagnosis. From there, you may be able to work with a South Carolina truck accident lawyer to pursue additional compensation for your depression. Learn more by contacting Mickelsen & Dalton, LLC.
Sources:
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1369847822001462
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7074414/
