Every day violent crime turns
innocent people into victims. Assault, murder, rape, robbery -- each has a
devastating impact on men, women, and children of all ages, all races, all
lifestyles.
Once you have become a victim of
a violent crime, your next step is to get your life back on track. After
getting medical attention, contact an attorney who specializes in law for
victims of criminal assault.
The majority of victims of
violent crime are emotionally affected. Although everyone reacts
differently, the following are reactions to violent crime:
- Shock and confusion
- Anger
- Feelings of panic and anxiety
- Increased concern for their
personal safety and that of their family
- Nightmares and a change in
sleep patterns
- Difficulty in handling
everyday problems
- Feelings of self-doubt, shame,
and guilt
- Reliving what happened
Everyone copes with tragedy
differently. The above are only examples of some reactions. These are normal
reactions to a very abnormal event.
Once you can recognize the above
as reactions to your violent crime you can begin to work on coping
strategies. Below are some strategies to help yourself cope with your
feelings.
- Take care of your physical
needs -- eat properly, get enough sleep and rest, and exercise
- Engage in activities you enjoy
that relieve stress
- Talk with others about the
trauma
- Seek emotional support from
loved ones and support systems
- Seek professional help if the
effects seem overwhelming
Lastly, you should begin to think
about compensation for your losses. There are two ways to collect civil
damages for a victim of a violent crime. Cases may be brought directly
against the assailant or the case may be brought against third parties that
contribute to the occurrence of the crime.
A third party case may include:
- Landlords, who are required by
law to provide adequate door and window locks
- Companies whose employees
commit a violent attack and injure another person
- Transit authorities are under
obligation to protect the safety of their riding patrons from criminal
violence, where the violence can reasonably be anticipated
- Colleges and universities or
other schools for rape and other assaults of students on campus
- Hotels, Motels, Hospitals, and
Convenience stores for injuries to patrons resulting from crime
- Malls, and large shopping
centers like a Walmart that may fail to adequately provide security in
parking lots.
- Daycare centers for failing to
protect children from physical abuse and sexual assaults
Each case should be evaluated
based on facts by an experienced attorney to know if there is a potential
claim. If you have been the victim of a violent crime and would like to see
if you can make a third party claim contact a local attorney who specializes
in victims of violent crime law. We will be happy to advise you.
Please send your questions or concerns via e-mail to
info@violentcrimesvictim.com or
call (404) 531-9700.
