Amotorist who struck and killed a joggerin the United States has filed a civil lawsuit against the victim's estate, saying the incident left him with severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Gavin Maas, 26, lodged the claim in Lancaster County, Nebraska, in April 2026, seeking at least $50,000 (about £36,900) in damages for what court documents describe as ongoing physical and psychological effects. The case centres on afatal collisionin August 2025, which resulted in the death of Anthony Miller, a 37-year-old father of two.
Compensation for psychological injury is recognised in law, though claims involving a deceased person's estate are less common and can raise complex legal questions.
According tothe complaint, the incident occurred in the early hours of 31 August 2025 in Lincoln, Nebraska. Maas was driving along a dark road when he encountered Miller and his wife jogging.
Court filings state that Miller's wife was wearing reflective clothing and was avoided, while Miller was allegedly dressed in darker clothing and positioned in the roadway. The claim states that the collision occurred shortly after he became visible.
Maas reportedly stopped immediately and attempted life-saving measures. Miller was taken to hospital but later died from his injuries. Police at the time did not bring criminal charges and said there was no indication the driver was impaired.
The legal action states that Maas has experienced significant psychological distress since the incident. According to the filing, he has required hospital treatment and completed a 21-day rehabilitation programme focused on trauma.
The complaint describes symptoms including intrusive memories, dissociation and ongoing anxiety, and states that he may require long-term care. His legal representatives argue that these effects constitute a recognised psychiatric injury.
In a statement cited by theDaily Mail, Maas's lawyer said the claim followed a dispute with an insurance provider, which allegedly declined to cover treatment costs linked to the incident. The statement adds that the aim is to secure insurance coverage, not direct payment from the victim's family.
Claims for psychological harm can be brought where a duty of care is established and a recognised condition is diagnosed. In Nebraska, such claims are typically framed as emotional distress and must meet specific legal thresholds.
Source: International Business Times UK
