When we talk about serious crashes, whether it is a bicycle accident in Chicago, a pedestrian being struck or a high-impact rideshare collision, most people think about broken bones, stitches or surgery. But what about the injuries that do not show up on an x-ray?
At Keating Law, we have represented many clients who suffer from PTSD after a bike accident, emotional trauma following a car crash or panic and anxiety after being hit while walking or riding. These are real, lasting injuries that Illinois
laws allow compensation for. If you are experiencing fear, flashbacks or psychological distress of a crash, you may be entitled to compensation.
What is PTSD After a Traffic Accident?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after someone experiences a terrifying or life-threatening event, such as a bicycle crash with a car, an e-scooter accident or even witnessing a serious collision. Some signs of PTSD or emotional trauma include:
- Avoiding intersections, traffic or certain streets
- Fear of biking, walking or driving
- Nightmares or flashbacks
- Irritability, mood swings or emotional withdrawal
- Panic attacks or difficulty concentrating at work
We've seen clients who could not return to their routine, not because of a cast or brace but because of the mental health injuries they were left with after a crash.
Can You Sue for Emotional Distress in Illinois?
Yes! Illinois law allows victims of traffic accidents to recover damages for emotional stress, anxiety, PTSD and related mental health conditions. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Psychological counseling or therapy
- Psychiatric medication and treatment
- Loss of enjoyment or life
- Pain and suffering
- Future mental health care needs
If your emotional trauma is interfering with your work, parenting, sleep, relationships or daily activities, it is legally relevant and it matters.
How to Prove Emotional Harm in a Personal Injury Claim
It is not enough to say you are anxious or afraid. Insurance companies want documented proof and we know how to provide it. At Keating Law, as necessary, we work with mental health professionals, including therapists, psychologists and psychiatrists, to help our clients build a record of their emotional injuries. We can also retain expert witnesses to explain how PTSD affects the brain and daily life, especially in bike vs. car crash lawsuits or pedestrian injury claims.
A Full Recovery Means Mental and Emotional Healing Too
Whether you were struck while riding your bike in a protected lane, injured in a crosswalk as a pedestrian or hurt in a rideshare or Uber crash, your suffering is not limited to physical harm. Your legal recovery should not be either. We have helped clients across Illinois recover for:
- PTSD from car accidents
- Emotional distress from bicycle crashes
- Anxiety following pedestrian injuries
- And much more
These are not fringe claims. They are part of the reality of recovering from a traumatic event. We fight to ensure you are treated with dignity and that every part of your injury is taken seriously.
If You Are Struggling, You Are Not Alone. We Can Help
You deserve a lawyer who listens. At Keating Law, we understand that the most painful injuries are not always visible. We advocate for the whole person, not just the medical bills.
Do not let an insurance company take advantage of you if you or someone you love suffered PTSD due to a crash. Give us a call at 833-CALL-KLO or contact us online to schedule a free consultation. There are no obligations, and we offer legal representation to injured pedestrians on a contingency fee basis. That means there are no upfront costs, and you pay nothing unless we win your case.
