There is always danger lurking in a place like St. Louis. Accidents may happen anytime, whether you’re negotiating the traffic downtown or the twisting streets of the Hill.
An accident can change lives in a jiffy. There are life-threatening physical injuries for the people involved. However, these incidents frequently result in profound emotional and psychological trauma that can endure well beyond physical recovery. Struggles with unseen pain are often overlooked, leading to a silent battle for many survivors.
This blog post aims to shed light on the hidden internal war accompanying car accidents in St. Louis and empower the affected with relevant choices.
The Invisible Wounds: Psychological Trauma
According to a study, road accidents are the leading cause of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the affected. Understanding the nature and impact of this invisible wound is crucial. It can help support those struggling in the aftermath of a crash.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder is typically diagnosed following the experience of or witnessing a highly distressing event. In the United States, Forbes estimates that around 3.5 million Americans are affected by this illness each year.
It presents unique challenges that go beyond the typical struggles individuals face when trying to cope with a distressing experience. PTSD persists for an extended period and disrupts daily routines.
Common symptoms of this condition include persistent intrusive thoughts, a tendency to avoid certain situations, and a heightened state of arousal. They might also be overwhelmed by intense feelings of guilt and shame.
Financial Burden of Physical Injuries
The U.S. healthcare system can be quite complex, with a significant portion of the costs being influenced by market forces. In the United States, prescription drugs are much more expensive than in other Western countries. Administrative regulations related to billing and coding can contribute to the overall expenses of the injured.
Missouri residents are increasingly worried about the escalating costs of healthcare. The cost of hospital visits has surged by approximately 160% in the last two decades. For many adults in Missouri, the concern over being able to afford medical care after an accident can be extremely pressing.
The initial medical expenses may appear to be the finish line, but, they are only the beginning. The true expense of healing accumulates over time, perhaps spanning years of physical and mental therapy, specialist visits, and medicine refills.
Even with insurance, there is a possibility of incurring significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Out-of-pocket Expenses
Aside from the financial burden of medical appointments and procedures, there are various other expenses that you might encounter. Prescriptions can be quite costly, leaving your wallet feeling significantly lighter. Whether it’s pain relievers or specialized medications, they add up as time goes on.
Moreover, the cost of necessary medical equipment, such as crutches or a wheelchair, can further strain your finances.
With years of savings gone in a matter of a few months, for many, seeking legal compensation is the only ray of hope. However, navigating the complex legal maze for personal injuries is not for the faint-hearted. Having an experienced St. Louis personal injury lawyer can make a significant impact.
They collaborate with medical professionals from renowned hospitals and clinics in the city. This can assist in establishing solid evidence to ensure that any agreement takes into account your medical expenses.
The Hidden Cost of Mental Therapy
Mental trauma is not quantitative. Hence, the affected might not realize how badly their stress is gnawing away their daily lives. Everyday tasks that were once effortless can transform into overwhelming challenges. These challenges can inadvertently affect your relationships, putting the patience of loved ones to the test.
Getting through the convoluted world of mental health care costs can be daunting. The level of insurance coverage for therapy and other services can vary greatly. A lawyer can assist you in advocating for the inclusion of therapy expenses and other mental health services in your settlement.
Groups such as the St. Louis chapter of the Brain Injury Association of Missouri (BIA-MO) provide valuable resources to assist individuals and families in managing these difficulties.
Impact on Relationships and Daily Life
Psychological trauma from car accidents can send shockwaves through every aspect of a survivor’s life. The emotional strain can put immense pressure on relationships with even the dearest ones.
Relationships with loved ones, once a source of comfort, may become strained as victims grapple with feelings of isolation and misunderstanding. In St. Louis, where tight-knit communities are the norm, this ripple effect can be especially heart-wrenching.
In a city like St. Louis, where the median household income is $52,941, losing a job due to mental health struggles can be a severe financial blow. The added stress of unemployment can further exacerbate trauma symptoms, creating a downward spiral.
Yes, you can seek compensation for the accident-induced job loss. However, that again requires a tumultuous legal road. According to TorHoerman Law, providing evidence is necessary to establish that your injury (directly or indirectly) has diminished your future earning potential.
To conclude, living with injuries and mental stress can be suffocating. Today, when talking about anxiety or depression is not commonplace, the inner struggle can squeeze every ounce of your willpower, leaving you mentally and physically exhausted beyond your imagination.
However, you should always remember that you are not alone. With the help of your community and an experienced lawyer, you can fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Yes, no amount of settlement can replace your journey; however, it can do a great deal to ease your financial troubles.
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Mireille 
Harper