Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after a serious accident. This psychological injury is legally recognised and can lead to compensation in Utrecht.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a psychological disorder that can arise after a shocking event. Typical symptoms include:
- Re-experiencing such as flashbacks or nightmares
- Avoidance of triggers
- Increased irritability and sleep disorders
- Difficulty concentrating
- Negative emotions and thoughts
PTSD as a Form of Personal Injury
In legal terms, PTSD is considered an injury for which compensation is possible:
- It must be an officially recognised diagnosis (according to DSM-5)
- The accident must be the direct cause of the PTSD
- The suffered damage must be demonstrable
What Damage Can Be Compensated for PTSD?
| Type of Damage | Description |
|---|---|
| Treatment costs | Therapies such as EMDR, sessions with a psychologist or psychiatrist |
| Loss of income | As a result of incapacity for work |
| Domestic assistance | When you can no longer perform tasks yourself |
| Pain and suffering compensation | Compensation for emotional and psychological pain |
Burden of Proof for PTSD
To successfully make a compensation claim for PTSD in Utrecht, you must prove:
- An official PTSD diagnosis by a specialist
- That the accident is the cause of your complaints
- The impact of PTSD on your daily life
Pain and Suffering Compensation for PTSD in Utrecht
The amounts for pain and suffering compensation for PTSD vary depending on the severity:
- Mild PTSD with full recovery: € 2,500 - € 7,500
- Moderate PTSD with permanent hindrance: € 7,500 - € 20,000
- Severe, permanent PTSD: € 20,000 - € 50,000
Can PTSD occur without physical injury?
Yes, PTSD can result from the shocking experience of an accident, even if there are no physical injuries. The psychological trauma is central.How do I prove that PTSD was caused by the accident?
A specialist such as a psychiatrist can make the diagnosis and confirm the connection to the accident. It is important that you had no prior similar complaints.Can I get PTSD as a witness to an accident?
Yes, this is called shock damage. You must then have a close relationship with the victim and have been a direct witness to the incident or its aftermath.Frequently Asked Questions about PTSD in Utrecht
How do I recognise PTSD after an accident?
Symptoms include recurrent nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance behaviour, irritability and negative feelings. These must persist for at least one month and disrupt your life. A psychiatrist can make a diagnosis according to DSM-5.
What should I do if I suspect PTSD?
Go to your GP or a psychologist in Utrecht for help. Start treatment such as EMDR and document your complaints. Contact a personal injury lawyer for legal steps.
How long does a compensation claim for PTSD take?
This depends on the case, but on average it takes 1 to 3 years. If liability is acknowledged, an advance payment can be made.
Is an advance on compensation possible?
Yes, if liability is acknowledged, you can apply for an advance via a lawyer in Utrecht for example treatment costs or loss of income.
What if my claim is rejected?
If rejected, you can file an objection with additional evidence. A lawyer can assist with legal steps, such as a case before the District Court of Midden-Nederland at Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1 in Utrecht.
How is pain and suffering compensation calculated?
The amount depends on the severity of the PTSD, the impact on your life and similar cases in case law.
For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Utrecht at Catharijnesingel 55.