The Human Element: Emotional Distress in Personal Injury Law
Personal injury law in Illinois, as in other parts of America, exists to uphold the rights of those who have been wrongfully injured due to the negligence of others. While most people are aware of the physical implications of personal injuries, there is another side of the coin that often goes unnoticed: emotional distress. This is the human element that underscores every personal injury case. It’s also the focus of discussion for us at The Law Office of Carlson Bier Associates, a seasoned personal injury law firm in Chicago, serving the state of Illinois.
Understanding Emotional Distress in Personal Injury
Emotional distress is a type of psychological injury which can occur as a result of a traumatic event, including personal injury instances. This distress can present in many ways including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and even suicidal thoughts. Unfortunately, the intangible nature of emotional harm allows it to frequently be overshadowed by the physical aspect of personal injuries.
Emotional Distress in Personal Injury Law
Illinois law recognizes emotional distress as a legitimate form of personal injury, meaning victims have the right to pursue compensation just as they would for physical injuries. Any individual who has suffered psychological trauma due to the negligent or intentional act of another party can build a case for compensation under the umbrella of emotional distress personal injury.
Proving Emotional Distress in Court
Proving emotional distress in a personal injury lawsuit is complex. The court demands evidence beyond the plaintiff’s word. Here are some general steps typically followed during the process:
- Documented Diagnosis: Evidence provided by a registered psychologist or psychiatrist, which indicates a direct link between the traumatic event and emotional distress, is paramount.
- Severity and Duration: The emotional distress must be severe enough to interfere with the plaintiff’s typical daily life activities and must persist for a substantial duration.
- Causal Connection: Concrete proof showing that the defendant’s negligence or outright action directly resulted in causing emotional distress to the plaintiff.
How The Law Office of Carlson Bier Associates Can Help
At Carlson Bier Associates, we believe in the comprehensive handling of personal injury cases, including the human element of emotional distress. We assist our clients by:
- Providing personalized, one-on-one legal counsel to build a solid emotional distress case.
- Working in conjunction with medical professionals to document and establish a timeline of emotional suffering.
- Navigating the overwhelming legal process on behalf of our clients, allowing them to focus on recovery.
Navigating Emotional Distress Claims with Experienced Advocates
Seeking compensation for emotional distress personal injury can be a taxing and daunting process. Having an experienced Illinois personal injury lawyer by your side, like those at Carlson Bier Associates, can significantly improve your chances of securing a fair settlement. We are well-versed in Illinois’ legal landscape and equipped to guide you effectively through the demanding process. With a deep understanding of the human element in personal injury law, we are dedicated to ensuring that clients’ emotional distress claims are given due recognition.
Get in Touch with Carlson Bier Associates
Whether you’re seeking to understand more about emotional distress personal injury, or are ready to pursue a case, the dedicated and compassionate team at Carlson Bier Associates is ready to assist. We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your options and provide insight into your case based on our vast experience.
As the Illinois Courts often stress, the law does not only exist to safeguard ourphysical beings but also our mental and emotional well-being. Everyone deserves to have their pain and suffering recognized and compensated, regardless of its form. Remember, you don’t have to navigate these tumultuous waters alone. Trust in the experienced team at Carlson Bier Associates to bring justice for your suffering. Your fight is our fight, and together, we can challenge the status quo, emphasize the human element in personal injury law, and ensure emotional distress personal injury claims get the attention they warrant.
