What is the average ptsd settlement? Quick Answer
- Our research on settlement amounts collected from four law firms in January 2025 indicates that the average settlement for PTSD cases typically ranges from $10,000 to $120,000.
Understanding PTSD: Symptoms and Long-Term Effects
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder caused by being involved in or witnessing a terrifying, traumatic, or extremely stressful event. Not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD.
PTSD symptoms may start right after the traumatic event (like an assault, car accident, or construction accident), but they also may start months or even years after. These are some common symptoms:
- Intrusive memories or nightmares about the event
- Avoiding anything that reminds you of the event
- Ongoing anger, extreme anxiety, shame, or other negative emotions
- Having “high arousal” symptoms like feeling jumpy or on guard
Many people need time to readjust after a traumatic event. However, if your symptoms are persistent and interfere with your day-to-day life, you might have PTSD.
Maximizing Your PTSD Settlement: Expert Tips
PTSD can make you feel like a fraction of your former self. If you do file a lawsuit for PTSD, these tips might help you get the compensation you deserve:
Work With an Experienced Attorney
The right attorney makes a major difference. Don’t choose just any personal injury lawyer — choose one who has successfully litigated PTSD lawsuits before.
Gather Detailed Medical Records
Medical records are very personal, but in order to win your case, you must be able to prove your PTSD diagnosis and the fact that it was caused by a particular event.
Illustrate PTSD’s Impact on Your Life
Consider keeping a daily journal of how PTSD negatively affects your life. You also could ask friends or family members to make statements on how your diagnosis has affected you.
Consult Medical Experts
Testimony from PTSD or mental health experts may help support your case.
Average PTSD Settlement Expectations
Based on our research of four law firms conducted in January 2025, the average PTSD settlement amounts range from $10,000 to $120,000. One law firm reports a lower bound of the average settlement as $10,000, while three others report $50,000. One law firm has declared that the upper bound of the average settlement is $120,000. Most cases, however, fall between $50,000 and $100,000, reflecting the significant impact PTSD has on individuals' lives and the long-term care many require. These amounts highlight how both the severity of symptoms and the individual's circumstances affect the final settlement.
Real-Life Example of PTSD Settlements
It’s possible to develop PTSD from many different situations, so cases involving PTSD settlements are much more varied than many people realize.
Facebook Content Moderators Received $52 Million
In 2020, Facebook reached a settlement agreement with more than 10,000 content moderators. The moderators worked for the platform on a contract basis removing offensive content that often included broadcasts of rape, murder, torture, suicide, and child sexual abuse. Many developed PTSD as a result, and Facebook paid a total of $52 million in damages.
A Woman Who Witnessed Her Child’s Death Received $10 Million
One California woman was involved in an accident caused by a reckless driver. She saw her child’s death in the process. She was ultimately awarded $10 million for PTSD after car accident trauma.
Key Factors Influencing PTSD Lawsuit Settlements
Several things affect PTSD lawsuit settlements amounts. The severity of the symptoms is key—those needing long-term therapy or medication usually get higher payouts. If PTSD keeps someone from working or affects their daily life, the settlement can be even larger. Strong medical records and proof of the condition are also important in getting a higher settlement.
The Importance of Documentation
A strong PTSD settlement case depends on having good records. This includes medical diagnoses, treatment history, and reports from mental health professionals. Without this proof, it can be harder to show how serious the condition is, which might lead to a smaller payout. Making sure there’s a clear connection between the traumatic event and the PTSD symptoms is very important for getting a fair settlement.
The Impact of Legal Representation and Timing on PTSD Settlements
In addition to the seriousness of PTSD symptoms and having the right medical records, having a good lawyer can make a big difference in the settlement amount. Lawyers who know PTSD cases well understand the details and can push for higher compensation. They help gather expert opinions, look at how PTSD affects the person long-term, and deal with insurance companies or the other side. Timing also matters—settlements may go up if the case is likely to go to trial, as both sides usually want to avoid the risk of going to court.
Understanding PTSD Settlements
Understanding the average PTSD settlement is important when seeking compensation. The final amount depends on how severe the symptoms are, how the condition affects daily life, and how strong the medical records are. By focusing on these main points, people can better handle their claims and improve their chances of getting a fair settlement.
