PTSD following a road traffic accident

By Emma Beazley

Published March 28, 2024In: Personal Injury, Client Stories

Switalskis has secured an out of court settlement for a 34-year old female, who was left significantly injured after being involved in a road traffic accident.

Our client was a passenger in a motor vehicle, being driven home in the evening after a day out. The vehicle was involved in a collision with an ambulance at a junction operated by traffic lights in Leeds.

As a result of the accident, our client suffered soft tissue injuries to the neck, shoulder and upper back, bruising to the neck and chest and bruising to both thighs. In addition to the physical injuries, our client suffered (PTSD) the symptoms of which included flashbacks, low mood and impaired concentration.

Our client sought treatment by way of counselling and responded well to the treatment, but suffered a deterioration as she approached the first anniversary of the accident. The client was prescribed anti-depressant medication and required a period of time off work.

Following the accident, our client struggled with the commute from Leeds to Rotherham due to anxiety and therefore sought employment closer to her home. Unfortunately, the only role available at the time was a lesser role within the NHS and at a lower pay grade. It was unlikely our client would obtain an equivalent position within the re-located NHS Trust for approximately 5-years.

The compensation award, agreed in an out of court settlement, included sums to reflect the client’s physical injuries sustained, the PTSD symptoms, loss of earnings, the cost of private counselling as well as a claim for the future loss of earnings incurred.

Kelly Homar , Senior Associate and Chartered Legal Executive within Switalskis Personal Injury team said: “Whilst it is quite usual for road traffic accident victims to suffer some travel anxiety, there is always a risk that could develop and become PTSD. Obtaining an early diagnosis of PTSD is crucial to getting the help you need.”

is a mental health condition usually caused by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event that affects an individual’s health and daily life. The symptoms of PTSD following a road traffic accident may include irritability, nervousness, feelings of being overwhelmed or of anxiety, nightmares and vulnerability.

Claims may be brought by individuals suffering from PTSD caused by an incident that occurred due to another party’s negligence. If you or a loved one may require PTSD support following a road traffic accident, please visit your GP who can refer you for diagnosis and get you the treatment you require.

If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a road traffic accident, our serious injury claims team could help you secure compensation. See our Road Traffic Accident Claims page for more information.