- What Is a PTSD Claim? A PTSD claim is a legal process that allows you to seek financial compensation if you’ve developed post-traumatic stress disorder due to someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. PTSD is a recognised mental health condition that can follow traumatic events such as accidents, assaults, or workplace incidents.
- What Is PTSD? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a psychiatric condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include:
- Flashbacks and nightmares
- Severe anxiety or panic attacks
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Insomnia or disturbed sleep
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
- Hypervigilance or irritability
- When Can You Make a PTSD Claim? You may be eligible if your PTSD was caused by:
- A road traffic accident
- Workplace accident or exposure to trauma
- Violent assault or criminal act
- Medical negligence (e.g. traumatic childbirth)
- Public liability incidents
- Military service or emergency service work
- How to Start a PTSD Compensation Claim
- Seek medical advice and get a formal PTSD diagnosis
- Document how your life has been affected
- Consult a solicitor with experience in PTSD claims
- Sign a no win no fee agreement if available
- Provide evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements
- Attend a psychological assessment arranged by your solicitor
- No Win No Fee PTSD Claims Most PTSD solicitors offer a no win no fee service, which means:
- You don’t pay any legal fees upfront
- You only pay if your claim is successful
- A capped success fee (up to 25%) is deducted from your compensation
- You may also be covered by After-the-Event (ATE) insurance
- What Can You Claim Compensation For? A PTSD claim may include:
- General damages: for pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
- Special damages: including:
- Medical and therapy expenses
- Lost income and future earnings
- Travel costs
- Cost of care or psychological support
- Home adaptations if required
- How Much Compensation Can You Receive for PTSD? Compensation depends on the severity and impact of your condition:
- Mild PTSD: £3,000 – £8,000
- Moderate PTSD: £8,000 – £23,000
- Severe PTSD: £23,000 – £100,000+
- How Long Do PTSD Claims Take?
- Simple claims: 6–12 months
- Complex or disputed claims: 12–24 months or more
- Do PTSD Claims Go to Court? Most claims settle out of court. However, if liability is denied or compensation is disputed, your solicitor may advise taking legal action. Court involvement is typically a last resort.
- Time Limit for PTSD Claims
You generally have three years from:
- The date of the traumatic event
- Or the date you became aware that PTSD was caused by the incident
Children and those without mental capacity may have longer to claim.
- How Is PTSD Diagnosed for a Claim?
PTSD must be diagnosed by a qualified medical professional, such as a GP, psychologist, or psychiatrist. Your solicitor will arrange an independent psychological evaluation to support your case.
- Workplace PTSD and Employer Liability
You may claim PTSD compensation from your employer if:
- You were involved in or witnessed a traumatic incident at work
- Your employer failed to take reasonable steps to protect your mental health
- The trauma was foreseeable and avoidable
- Military and Emergency Services PTSD Claims
Armed forces personnel and emergency workers may claim compensation if:
- They were repeatedly exposed to trauma without proper support
- The Ministry of Defence or relevant authority failed in their duty of care
- The injury occurred during service and affects daily life
- Psychological Injury Claims After Road Traffic Accidents
PTSD is common after serious car accidents. Even if physical injuries are minor, a psychological injury like PTSD may be valid grounds for a claim. The condition must be supported by medical documentation.
- How a Solicitor Can Help With Your PTSD Claim
- Assess your eligibility and compensation value
- Gather evidence and arrange medical evaluations
- Handle paperwork and legal procedures
- Negotiate with insurers for a fair settlement
- Represent you in court if necessary
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a formal PTSD diagnosis to make a claim?
Yes. A medical assessment and diagnosis are essential to prove your condition. - Can I claim for PTSD without a physical injury?
Yes. Psychological injuries are recognised as valid personal injury claims. - Can I make a claim if the trauma happened years ago?
Possibly, if the diagnosis was recent or if you only recently became aware of the link between the trauma and your PTSD. - Can family members of PTSD sufferers claim?
In some cases, family members may claim for emotional distress or loss of support, especially in fatal or serious incidents. - Is the PTSD claim confidential?
Yes. All discussions with your solicitor and documents related to your case are handled with strict confidentiality. - Will claiming affect my job?
It is illegal for an employer to fire or penalise you for making a valid claim related to workplace mental health.
Conclusion
A PTSD claim can offer vital financial support and recognition for the emotional toll of a traumatic experience. Whether it stemmed from a car accident, work incident, or assault, you have the legal right to seek compensation. With expert legal guidance and a no win no fee agreement, making a PTSD claim is a safe and accessible process. Take the first step toward healing and justice—contact a solicitor and start your claim today.