Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a very real mental health condition that can result from a variety of traumatizing experiences, but is most common among current or former members of the military. The question of whether PTSD is a “bodily injury” seems arbitrary, but in the world of tort law, it can matter a great deal. If you or a loved one has experienced PTSD as the result of the negligence of another, you may be entitled to significant monetary relief. Act now and contact one of our expert personal injury attorneys here at the Law Offices of Gilbert R. Hoy, Jr. and Affiliates to discuss your potential claim. Call our injury attorneys today at 617-787-3700 or email us at info@gilhoylaw.com for your free and private consultation. Your needs are our top priority!
When, in 2009, a plane traveling to Sydney, Australia made a stop to refuel, the stormy conditions were such that eventually the pilot was forced to land the plane in the water. The impact was harsh, and the plane broke into six large chunks, although all the passengers survived. One passenger, Karen Casey, filed a lawsuit against the operator of the plane, Pel-Air, claiming the crash had been the result of the pilot’s negligence. Casey was awarded damages, although on appeal her damages were reduced, as the court decided that PTSD was not compensable as a “bodily injury”. The court explained that damage to the brain does indeed count as a bodily injury, but chemical changes, such as depression or PTSD, do not.