Construction sites can be dangerous workplaces; heavy work equipment, ladders, scaffolding, and debris can create hazardous conditions. Because of the inherently dangerous environment, it is important that construction workers and the companies employing them take necessary safety precautions to prevent injuries.
Unfortunately, reckless and negligent decisions frequently lead to construction accidents. Construction accidents can result in serious injuries, financial losses, and emotional trauma for victims. PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is one condition that can develop after a construction accident.
At Golitko & Daly, our team of IOSHA certified construction accident attorneys fight to help construction accident injury victims obtain compensation for damages, including those stemming from PTSD. If you are interested in learning more about construction accidents and PTSD, contact our Indianapolis, IN attorneys.
What Causes PTSD?
PTSD can develop after any stressful, frightening, or traumatic event. PTSD may be triggered by a violent attack, a car accident, a natural disaster, or a construction accident. PTSD is a fairly common condition. Statistics show that one in three people who experience a traumatic event will experience PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD may result in different symptoms in each individual. Following a construction accident injury, some of the most likely symptoms of PTSD include the following:
- Re-living the accident: It is normal for those suffering from PTSD to repeatedly re-live their traumatic experience. For construction accident victims, this may mean dreaming of or seeing visions of the accident. These flashbacks are often so intense that it feels like the accident is being experienced again.
- Avoidance: Another common symptom of PTSD is avoidance. Construction accident victims often avoid returning to the scene of the accident because they are afraid it will trigger flashbacks. This avoidance can prevent construction workers from returning to work and can lead to further isolation and depression.
- Increased anxiety: Those suffering from PTSD often experience changes in their temperament. After a construction accident injury, victims may be more irritable, aggressive, or anxious.
- Physical changes: PTSD is not just a mental condition. It is common for people suffering from PTSD to notice physical changes as well. These include weight gain, headaches, muscle soreness, and high blood pressure.
Treating PTSD
Individuals suffering from PTSD after a construction accident should not be ashamed to get help. There is treatment available to ease the symptoms of PTSD. Treatment options for PTSD include therapies and medication. With prompt attention, PTSD can be successfully treated.
Compensation
It is important to work with an experienced attorney following a construction accident. Our attorneys fight to obtain compensation for all damages suffered as the result of a construction accident. This includes the emotional trauma of PTSD, as well as the costs of treatment.
Schedule a Consultation
If you have been involved in a construction accident and would like to learn more about your legal rights, our attorneys are here to help. Schedule a consultation with one of our experienced construction accident attorneys at your earliest convenience to discuss the details of your case.