Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Lawyer in Chicago

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can change your life in ways you never imagined. Whether caused by a car accident, workplace incident, or another traumatic event, PTSD is a condition that requires understanding, support, and justice. If you or a loved one has PTSD due to someone else’s negligence, our personal injury attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process.

Understanding PTSD

PTSD is a serious mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is more than just a stressful reaction—it’s a long-term psychological injury that can disrupt every aspect of life. PTSD is a valid condition that can qualify for compensation under Illinois personal injury law when caused by negligence or wrongdoing.

Legal Services Provided By Our Top-Rated Attorneys 

When you are dealing with the emotional and financial toll of PTSD, choosing the right legal team can make all the difference. At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we pride ourselves on providing unmatched representation and support for our clients.

Compassionate Representation

We understand the sensitive nature of PTSD cases and are committed to listening to your story with empathy and care. Our law firm treats every client with the respect and compassion they deserve.

Extensive Experience with PTSD Cases

Our attorneys have successfully handled numerous cases involving PTSD. We understand the complexities of proving psychological injuries and will build a strong case to ensure justice.

Holistic Approach to Client Care

We don’t just focus on winning your case—we focus on your overall well-being. From connecting you with medical professionals to guiding you on your recovery journey, we support you every step of the way.

Personalized Legal Strategies

We tailor our legal strategies to meet the unique circumstances of your situation. Our attorneys ensure that every aspect of your trauma and its impact is accounted for in your claim.

Proven Track Record of Success

Our results speak for themselves. We have secured substantial settlements for clients who have PTSD, enabling them to access the resources they need for recovery.

Strong Negotiation Skills

Insurance companies often downplay psychological injuries like PTSD. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators who won’t settle for less than you deserve.

Courtroom Advocacy

We are fully prepared to take your case to court if necessary. Our experienced attorneys have the trial experience needed to fight for justice in the courtroom.

Top Causes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD can occur from many types of traumatic events. While car accidents are among the most common causes, many other situations can also trigger this condition. Below are some of the leading causes of PTSD in Chicago:

Car Accidents: Severe car accidents are a top cause of PTSD. Survivors may experience flashbacks, nightmares, or an intense fear of driving. 

Workplace Accidents: High-risk jobs, such as those in construction or manufacturing, can lead to PTSD. This can happen when workers are exposed to catastrophic equipment failures and prolonged unsafe working conditions.

Physical or Sexual Assault: Assault victims often have PTSD due to the violation of their safety and personal autonomy. This type of trauma can have lasting effects on mental health, including heightened anxiety, flashbacks, and emotional withdrawal.

Medical Malpractice: Wrong medical procedures or severe misdiagnoses can lead to PTSD. The fear of undergoing further treatment, coupled with the emotional distress of the error, can leave patients with lasting trauma.

Natural Disasters: Tornadoes, floods, and other natural disasters that disrupt lives can cause PTSD, particularly for those who lose loved ones, homes, or a sense of safety during the event.

Going through A Severe Loss: Witnessing the unexpected and preventable death of a loved one can lead to PTSD. The emotional burden of such events often requires long-term psychological support.

The Effects Of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

The effects of PTSD go far beyond emotional distress, affecting multiple areas of life, including relationships, work, and physical health. Here are some of the most common effects of PTSD:

Emotional and Psychological Impact

• Intrusive Thoughts: Flashbacks, nightmares, or reliving the event repeatedly.

• Hypervigilance: A constant state of alertness or fear of danger.

• Emotional Numbness: Difficulty feeling joy, love, or other positive emotions.

• Anxiety and Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness, fear, or hopelessness.

Physical Health Effects

PTSD is linked to various physical symptoms, such as:

• Fatigue and exhaustion.

• Chronic pain or headaches.

Social and Professional Disruption

• Strained Relationships: Difficulty connecting with loved ones or maintaining social bonds.

• Isolation: Avoiding situations or people that remind you of the trauma.

What Compensation Can People Living with PTSD Receive In Chicago?

If you have PTSD due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to financial compensation for:

• Medical Costs: Therapy, medications, and long-term treatment.

• Lost Wages: Income lost due to time off work or reduced earning capacity.

• Pain and Suffering: Acknowledgment of psychological distress.

• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Compensation for activities you can no longer enjoy.

• Future Expenses: Anticipated costs for ongoing therapy.

At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we work to secure the maximum compensation our clients deserve.

Illinois Laws Protecting Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Victims

Illinois law recognizes PTSD as a legitimate injury and allows victims to seek compensation for the emotional and psychological harm caused by another party’s negligence. Key laws include:

Illinois Personal Injury Law 

According to the Illinois Personal Injury Act, victims can pursue compensation for physical and psychological injuries within two years after the injury occurred. 

Workers’ Compensation Act

Illinois recognizes PTSD as a compensable condition under certain circumstances. Employees can file for compensation within three years from the date of the injury under the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act if they can demonstrate that their PTSD is work-related.  

Product Liability Act

Manufacturers and sellers can be held strictly liable if a product defect causes injury, including psychological injuries like PTSD. This means that victims don’t need to prove negligence—only that the product was defective and caused harm. The Illinois Product Liability Act states that claims must be made within 2 years to get proper compensation.

Who Can Be Held Liable for PTSD In Chicago?

When PTSD results from someone else’s negligence, the responsible party can be held accountable. Potentially liable parties include:

1. Negligent Drivers: Drivers whose reckless behavior caused the crash.

2. Employers: If unsafe work conditions or negligence contributed to trauma.

3. Property Owners: If inadequate safety measures led to the traumatic event.

4. Healthcare Providers: For negligent errors leading to medical trauma.

5. Assailants: Individuals responsible for violent or criminal acts.

6. Third Parties: Contractors or manufacturers contributing to the incident.

Take Action Today

PTSD is a serious condition that deserves recognition and justice. At Chicago Injury Lawyer, we are committed to helping you hold liable parties accountable and secure the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Contact Us for a Free Call us today or fill out our online form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation. Together, we’ll fight for your rights, recovery, and future.

Let us handle the legal battle—you focus on healing.

Frequently Asked Questions