Detroit Car Accident Psychological Injury / PTSD Lawyers

Psychological Injuries From Car Accidents

Psychological injuries can be just as devastating as physical ones following a car accident. In Detroit, we’ve seen how the emotional and mental toll of an accident can significantly affect your quality of life. Car accident-related psychological injuries often manifest as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or even long-term emotional distress. The legal system recognizes the impact of psychological injuries, which is why victims in Michigan can pursue compensation for these types of damages.

At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we understand the profound effects of psychological injuries, and we are committed to helping our clients obtain justice. With over 180 years of combined experience and a track record of helping over 25,000 Michigan families, we aim to get you more than any other lawyer would. Let us guide you through the legal process while you focus on recovery.

Understanding Psychological Injuries From Car Accidents

Psychological injuries arise from all types of car accidents, including head-on collisions, rear-end accidents, side-impact crashes, and pedestrian-related incidents. These injuries often stem from the trauma of the accident itself, the stress of recovery, or witnessing harm to others. Psychological effects may include sleeplessness, mood swings, avoidance of driving, or an inability to maintain relationships and employment.

Michigan law allows victims to pursue compensation for psychological injuries under personal injury claims. These non-economic damages are intended to cover pain and suffering, emotional distress (PTSD), and loss of enjoyment of life. However, proving psychological injuries can be challenging. Our firm works closely with medical professionals to document the full extent of your injury and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Common Accident Scenarios Leading To Psychological Injuries

Psychological injuries can arise in many situations, such as:

• Severe Collisions – High-impact collisions cause emotional trauma, particularly if there are fatalities or catastrophic injuries involved.
• Hit-And-Run Incidents – The uncertainty and fear resulting from a hit-and-run can leave lasting emotional scars.
• Pedestrian Or Bicycle Accidents – Victims in these situations often face not only physical injuries but also emotional distress from the shock and vulnerability of being struck by a vehicle.
• Drunk Driving Accidents – Knowing that your injury resulted from someone else’s negligence or recklessness can amplify feelings of anger, helplessness, and frustration.

Every case is unique, and we take the time to understand the specific circumstances surrounding your car accident injury claim.

Who Pays For Psychological Injuries In Michigan?

Michigan follows a no-fault insurance system, which means that your own insurance company typically covers medical expenses and lost wages up to certain limits. However, claims for non-economic damages, including psychological injuries, may require a lawsuit against the at-fault driver.

Under Michigan law, psychological injuries are considered “serious impairments of body function” if they interfere with your ability to live a normal life. Meeting this threshold is necessary to pursue non-economic damages. We carefully gather evidence, including medical records, expert testimony, and witness accounts, to prove that your psychological injury meets this standard.

Proving Psychological Injuries In A Car Accident Claim

Proving psychological injuries is more complex than demonstrating physical harm. Michigan courts require evidence of diagnosis and treatment by a qualified mental health professional. Common forms of evidence include:

• Medical Documentation – Medical records from therapists, psychiatrists, or psychologists are necessary.
• Expert Testimony – Mental health professionals can explain how the injury affects your daily life and ability to function.
• Personal Testimony – Your own account of the impact on your life is crucial for conveying the severity of the injury.

We help build a comprehensive case that demonstrates the extent of your psychological injury and the compensation you are entitled to receive.

Michigan Laws And Statutes Relevant To Psychological Injury Claims

Several Michigan statutes play a role in cases involving psychological injuries. The Michigan No-Fault Insurance Act provides coverage for immediate medical expenses, but pursuing compensation for psychological injuries typically falls under personal injury law.

Additionally, Michigan’s threshold injury law (MCL 500.3135) establishes the criteria for serious impairment of body function. Proving this threshold requires showing that your psychological injury has substantially affected your ability to live a normal life. We use our extensive experience to navigate these legal complexities and maximize your claim.

How We Help Clients Recover Compensation For Psychological Injuries

Our firm understands that psychological injuries require special attention. Unlike physical injuries, they may not heal on their own and often demand long-term therapy or treatment. We handle every aspect of your case, including:

1. Evaluating Your Claim – During a free, confidential consultation, we’ll discuss your case and provide guidance on your legal options.
2. Documenting Evidence – We gather the necessary medical treatment and diagnosis documentation as well as expert testimony.
3. Negotiating With Insurance Companies – Insurance companies often undervalue psychological injuries. We aggressively advocate for fair compensation.
4. Litigating If Necessary – If a settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court to fight for your rights.

Car Accident Psychological Injury Claim FAQs                

What Are Psychological Injuries In A Car Accident Case?

Psychological injuries refer to the mental and emotional harm caused by a traumatic event like a car accident. These injuries include PTSD, anxiety, depression, and emotional distress. Unlike physical injuries, they may not have visible symptoms, but they can significantly impact your daily life. Under Michigan law, victims can seek compensation for psychological injuries if they meet the legal threshold for serious impairment.

How Can I Prove Psychological Injuries In A Michigan Car Accident Case?

Proving psychological injuries involves providing evidence from qualified mental health professionals. This may include a formal diagnosis, treatment records, and expert testimony. Personal accounts of how the injury affects your life can also strengthen your claim. Michigan law requires showing that the injury interferes with your ability to live a normal life to qualify for non-economic damages.

Can Psychological Injuries Be Covered Under Michigan’s No-Fault Insurance?

Michigan’s no-fault insurance primarily covers medical expenses and lost wages. While psychological injuries may not be explicitly covered under basic no-fault benefits, you can pursue a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault driver for non-economic damages. These damages include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

What Compensation Can I Receive For Psychological Injuries?

Victims of psychological injuries may receive compensation for non-economic damages such as emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. In some cases, you may also recover economic damages like therapy costs and lost wages. Our team ensures that all aspects of your injury are considered when seeking compensation.

How Long Do I Have To File A Claim For Psychological Injuries In Michigan?

In Michigan, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is three years from the date of the accident. However, it’s best to act quickly to preserve evidence and strengthen your claim. We encourage you to contact us as soon as possible to ensure your rights are protected.

Why Should I Hire A Lawyer For Psychological Injury Claims?

Psychological injury claims can be complex, requiring detailed evidence and legal knowledge to prove. Insurance companies often undervalue these types of injuries, making it difficult for victims to receive fair compensation without legal representation. We have extensive experience handling these cases and can advocate for your rights to ensure you get the compensation you deserve.

Call Our Detroit Car Accident Psychological Injury / PTSD Lawyers For A Free Consultation

If you’ve suffered psychological injuries in a car accident, you deserve compassionate and experienced legal representation. At Ravid & Associates, P.C., we fight to ensure our clients receive the maximum compensation for their injuries. With over 180 years of combined experience and a commitment to helping Michigan families, we are ready to stand by your side.

Contact our Detroit car accident psychological injury attorneys at Ravid & Associates, P.C. today by calling (248) 948-9696 to receive your free consultation. Our attorneys represent clients in Detroit and throughout the state of Michigan from our office in Southfield. There is no fee unless we win your case. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve!