Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after a severe accident. This psychological injury is legally recognised and can lead to compensation in Zoetermeer.
What is PTSD?
PTSD is a mental disorder that can arise after a traumatic experience, such as an accident. Typical symptoms include:
- Re-experiencing (e.g. flashbacks or nightmares)
- Avoidance of triggers
- Increased irritability and sleep disorders
- Difficulty concentrating
- Negative emotions and thoughts
PTSD as a form of personal injury
PTSD is regarded as an injury for which you can file a compensation claim, provided that:
- It is an officially recognised psychiatric disorder (according to DSM-5)
- The accident is the direct cause of the PTSD
- The damage is demonstrable
What costs can you claim for PTSD?
| Type of damage | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Treatment costs | Therapy with a psychologist, psychiatrist or EMDR |
| Loss of income | Due to temporary or permanent incapacity for work |
| Domestic assistance | If you can no longer perform household tasks yourself |
| Non-pecuniary damages | Compensation for emotional and psychological pain |
Burden of proof for PTSD
To successfully file a claim for PTSD in Zoetermeer, you must prove:
- An official PTSD diagnosis by a specialist
- That the accident is the cause of your symptoms
- The impact of PTSD on your daily life
Amount of non-pecuniary damages for PTSD
The amounts for non-pecuniary damages for PTSD vary depending on the situation:
- Mild PTSD with full recovery: € 2,500 - € 7,500
- Moderate PTSD with permanent limitations: € 7,500 - € 20,000
- Severe, permanent PTSD: € 20,000 - € 50,000
Can PTSD occur without physical injuries?
Yes, PTSD can result from the psychological impact of an accident, even if you have not sustained physical injury.How do I prove that my PTSD is 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 did not have similar symptoms before the accident.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 Zoetermeer
How do I recognise PTSD after an accident?
Symptoms include recurrent nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of triggers, irritability and negative feelings. If these symptoms persist for more than a month and disrupt your life, seek help from a psychologist in Zoetermeer for a diagnosis.
What to do if I suspect PTSD?
Go to your GP or a psychologist in Zoetermeer for an assessment. Start therapy as soon as possible and keep a record of your symptoms. Contact a personal injury lawyer, for example via the Zoetermeer Legal Aid Office, for help with a claim.
How long does a compensation claim for PTSD take?
This can take 1 to 3 years, depending on the case and the counterparty. If liability is acknowledged, you can request an advance payment through your lawyer.
Is an advance on compensation possible?
Yes, if liability is acknowledged, you can receive an advance for costs such as therapy or loss of income. This will be settled against the total compensation later.
What if my claim is rejected?
If rejected, you can submit additional evidence or start legal proceedings via the District Court of The Hague. A lawyer can assist you with this.