When you’re riding a bicycle, you would never expect to be in a collision. However, it can happen to any rider at any time, especially on the hustle and bustle streets of New York. Getting into a collision on a bicycle is especially dangerous because the rider doesn’t have the protection that vehicles have, leading to more severe injuries, both physical and emotional.
Especially because bicycle collisions can be so violent and traumatic, victims are at risk for developing post-traumatic stress disorder. This is a psychological disorder that results from a traumatic experience. For many, war veterans come to mind when thinking of victims of PTSD. However, bicycle crash victims are at a high risk of developing this disorder as well.
Some of the symptoms associated with PTSD following a bicycle collision include:
Anxiety or panic attacks about getting back on a bike.
Fear of a crash happening again.
Flashbacks of the crash occurring.
Depression following the crash.
Insomnia or inability to fall asleep.
Irritability towards friends or family members trying to help.
Psychological damages can harm a person just like physical injuries can. PTSD can affect a person’s work, personal relationships, and quality of life. A traumatic experience such as a bicycle collision can be difficult to come to terms with. The best way to get back on the bike and fight cyclist post-crash PTSD is to confront your feelings and speak to someone about them. This usually comes in the form of professional help, however, even talking with close friends and family members can help you learn how to cope.
When suffering from post-bicycle crash PTSD, you may be gripped with fear of ever getting on two wheels again. It’s essential to realize that fear is not reality. Actually, fear makes people lose their sense of internal awareness. It’s important to step back from the situation and ask yourself if you are actually in a threatening situation. This will make you realize you are not in immediate danger and that you can get back on the bike and ride just like you did before.
If you or a loved one has been injured by in a bicycle collision and is suffering from PTSD or emotional damages, contact our firm at (888) 290-5994. You may be entitled to compensation.