Emotional trauma claims can be made. Still, the attorney has to prove that the client has been subjected to mental trauma and suffering for the event.
As a raging wildfire spread over a vast region of Southern California, including LA, thousands of people suffered property damage. However, according to experts, the victims should not only worry about property damage and physical injuries. Doctors and mental health experts caution about the immense mental impact of the wildfire on the survivors. This is something wildfire lawyers should take into account while filing compensation claims for their clients.
Understanding the mental impact of wildfire on the victims
A large-scale wildfire raging across miles and gutting down properties rapidly can affect the emotional health of the victims, according to mental health experts. While not everyone affected by such disasters will develop a mental health condition, some victims are at risk. Those experiencing losses like the demise of a near one, suffering physical harm, or property loss are more likely to develop mental health conditions like PTSD. Even the loss of pets and destruction of belongings can wreak havoc on their mind.
Experts think exposure to wildfire smoke can also gradually impact people. It can travel long distances and adversely affect air quality. People who get exposed to such wildfire smoke also face the risk. It can lead to the onset of depression and anxiety. Veteran LA wildfire lawyers analyze these issues when assisting their clients in seeking compensation for wildfire.
Emotional trauma claims after a wildfire-the legal perspective
As per the law in California, people can seek compensation for non-economic damages after getting affected by events like wildfire. However, for wildfire victims, it is necessary to prove that they have been affected by the event emotionally, apart from property damage.
- Collaboration with doctors and mental health assessment- Emotional trauma claims can be made. Still, the attorney has to prove that the client has been subjected to mental trauma and suffering for the event. It will be necessary to confirm that the wildfire caused the trauma and determine the liability of the responsible parties. Such attorneys may have to collaborate with doctors and mental health experts to analyze and understand the cognitive impact on the client.
- Gathering evidence- Such legal expert has to prove that their clients developed PTSD or similar mental health conditions after getting affected by the wildfire and before they were fine. For this, they may have to gather existing clinical records of their clients. They will also interrogate their clients’ friends, family members, and colleagues for the same reason.
- Dealing with insurers- Insurance companies may not want to pay coverage for emotional distress and treatment of any emotional trauma for such events. Experienced attorneys deploy necessary measures to extract the maximum compensation from such insurers. The compensation may include therapy costs, relocation expenses, and more.
Final words
Wildfire victims should not delay contacting a veteran legal expert handling such cases. They should compare a few such attorneys to find the best contender. Usually, the best way to determine the suitability of such lawyers is to opt for a consultation session. The lawyers’ interaction and approach help the victims analyze the feasibility.
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