Emotional Impact of Wrongful Death in St. Louis Car Crash

While car accidents in St. Louis can cause significant physical injuries, the emotional trauma can be equally devastating and long-lasting. This analysis explores the legal considerations surrounding the emotional impact of car crashes in St. Louis.

Emotional Distress as Damages in Personal Injury Claims:

In Missouri, emotional distress can be considered compensable damages in a personal injury claim arising from a car accident. To recover compensation for emotional distress, you'll need to prove the following:

The car accident was caused by the negligence of another driver.
You suffered a physical injury as a result of the accident.
The emotional distress you're experiencing is a direct result of the accident and your physical injuries. There must be a clear link between the accident and the emotional distress.

Types of Emotional Distress Recognized in Missouri:

Anxiety: Persistent worry, fear, or nervousness related to the accident or driving in general.
Depression: Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety triggered by reminders of the accident.
Emotional pain and suffering: This is a broader term encompassing various negative emotions caused by the accident.

Challenges of Proving Emotional Distress:

Unlike physical injuries, emotional distress can be subjective and difficult to quantify. Here's how you can strengthen your claim:

Medical Records: Documentation from a doctor, therapist, or psychiatrist linking your emotional distress to the car accident is crucial.
Witness Testimony: Family and friends can testify about changes in your behavior, mood, and overall well-being after the accident.
Journaling: Keeping a journal to document your emotional state and how it impacts your daily life can be helpful evidence.

Non-Economic Damages vs. Economic Damages:

Emotional distress falls under non-economic damages, which are distinct from economic damages like medical bills and lost wages. Non-economic damages are generally harder to value and may be subject to caps depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

Role of a Lawyer in St. Louis Car Crash Cases:

A personal injury lawyer experienced in St. Louis car accident cases can:

Gather evidence: They can help you collect medical records, witness statements, and other evidence to support your claim of emotional distress.
Work with medical professionals: Your lawyer can collaborate with therapists or psychiatrists to document the severity of your emotional distress.
Negotiate with insurance companies: Insurance companies may be resistant to compensating for emotional distress. A lawyer can fight for the compensation you deserve.

Remember:

The emotional impact of a car accident can be profound and long-lasting.
You don't have to minimize your emotional distress or suffer in silence.
If you've been in a car accident in St. Louis and are experiencing emotional trauma, consulting with a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your legal options and potentially recover compensation for your emotional suffering.