Q: Can I sue an individual for emotional trauma after being harassed and rear ended in a hit and run while driving?
I live in Woodbridge, Virginia. This morning I was involved in a hit and run, where an individual rear ended me on purpose while my car was in motion after terrorizing me for about a mile and a half. I obtained his license plate number when he drove away and called the police. My legal question is whether I can see a therapist and sue said individual for emotional trauma or harrassment.
A: In Virginia the negligent infliction of emotional distress is not an individual cause of action that may be brought without other injuries. However, if you were physically injured in the accident and received medical care and also received psychiatric care as a result of the trauma of the accident, it can be an important element of your damages in the case. I recommend that you contact a personal injury attorney in your area to discuss the accident and the case you may have.
A: Additionally, you may have a case for intentional infliction of emotional distress, but these are difficult cases and again, you must have some form of treatment for the psychological component
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