Can I Claim for the Impact an Accident Has Had on My Mental Health?
Can I Claim for the Impact an Accident Has Had on My Mental Health?
Accidents can leave lasting scars — not just physically, but mentally too. While the focus of many personal injury claims tends to be on physical injuries, it’s increasingly recognised that the psychological impact can be just as debilitating. At Fox Law, we believe in a holistic approach to personal injury claims, ensuring the full impact on your wellbeing is acknowledged and pursued through the correct legal channels.
What Is a Psychological Injury?
A psychological injury can range from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and anxiety, to depression and adjustment disorders. These conditions often develop following serious accidents — such as road traffic collisions, workplace incidents, or public accidents — and can significantly affect a person’s ability to function day-to-day.
The NHS defines PTSD as a condition triggered by a traumatic event, where symptoms include flashbacks, insomnia, and feelings of isolation (NHS PTSD overview). While PTSD is a common condition following trauma, other mental health impacts like general anxiety and depressive episodes are also regularly reported by those involved in serious accidents.
Can You Claim Compensation for Mental Health Issues?
Yes, you can. Under UK law, it is possible to claim compensation for psychological injuries caused by the negligence of another party. This could be a standalone claim or part of a wider personal injury case that includes physical injuries.
To succeed in such a claim, you must prove:
- That the accident was due to someone else’s negligence
- That your mental health has been negatively affected as a result
- That a medical expert has diagnosed your condition
Legal precedent exists for such claims. For instance, the Judicial College Guidelines provide a structured compensation framework for psychological injuries, including factors such as the duration of the symptoms and the impact on the claimant’s quality of life (JC Guidelines).
How Do I Prove the Impact on My Mental Health?
Evidence is key. At Fox Law, we work with trusted mental health professionals, such as:
- Chartered psychologists and psychiatrists who can provide clinical assessments
- Therapists who can offer treatment records or reports on your progress
- Your GP, whose notes can support your claim and provide a timeline
You can also obtain support from external organisations like Mind UK (www.mind.org.uk), which advocates for mental health awareness and provides tools for managing trauma-related symptoms.
We recommend early intervention — both legally and clinically — to strengthen your case and help you on the road to recovery.
How Much Compensation Could I Receive?
The amount awarded will depend on several factors:
- The severity and duration of your psychological symptoms
- The impact on your relationships and ability to work
- The need for ongoing treatment or medication
According to the Judicial College Guidelines, compensation for psychological injuries can range from around £1,500 for minor distress to over £100,000 for severe, life-altering mental health conditions.
Why Choose Fox Law?
At Fox Law, we take the emotional side of accidents seriously. We offer:
- A confidential, compassionate approach
- Access to mental health specialists
- A no-win, no-fee structure for eligible claims
- Local expertise across Northern Ireland and beyond
We’ll support you in accessing the help you need, whether that’s therapy, financial redress, or peace of mind that your experience is being taken seriously.
Start Your Mental Health Claim Today
If your mental health has been affected by an accident that wasn’t your fault, contact Fox Law for a confidential consultation. We’ll guide you through the process and help ensure your suffering is properly recognised — and compensated.
Call us today on 028 8225 7722
Or visit www.foxlaw.co.uk to begin your claim.
