Can Car Accidents Cause PTSD?
By Administrator | | Car Accident

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can develop after experiencing a traumatic event, such as a car accident. While it may not be visible on an X-ray or CT scan like a broken bone or internal injury, PTSD is just as severe and can significantly impact a person’s life. Many car accident survivors experience emotional distress in the aftermath, but few recognize the signs of PTSD immediately. It is crucial to be aware of the symptoms and seek the appropriate care if you or a loved one may be affected.
Recognizing the Major Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD manifests in a variety of ways, and no two people experience it exactly the same. However, there are some common symptoms associated with the condition, including:
- Flashbacks or Nightmares: Reliving the accident in vivid detail, sometimes feeling as though it is happening again.
- Avoidance: Refusing to drive or be a passenger in a vehicle, or avoiding anything that reminds you of the accident.
- Emotional Numbing: Feeling detached or disconnected from others, or struggling to experience positive emotions.
- Sleep Disturbance: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing nightmares related to the accident.
- Hypervigilance: Constantly being on edge, easily startled, or overly alert to your surroundings.
- Irritability: Increased agitation, frustration, or emotional outbursts.
If these symptoms arise after a car accident, it’s important to recognize that PTSD may be the cause. While it can be overwhelming, the good news is that effective treatments are available, including cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure therapy, and stress inoculation training. Early intervention with a mental health professional can help manage these symptoms and lead to a better quality of life.
How Common Is PTSD After a Car Accident?
Over the years, researchers have conducted various studies to determine how frequently PTSD develops after car accidents. The results indicate that PTSD is more common than many people might think:
- A 2019 study found that 46.5% of motor vehicle accident survivorsexhibited PTSD symptoms.
- Another study revealed that 39% of car accident survivors developed PTSD.
- An older study had estimated that 9% of survivors experienced PTSD.
The increasing recognition of PTSD symptoms has led to higher diagnosis rates, with many researchers now estimating that around 4 in 10 car accident survivors develop the disorder. As awareness of mental health issues continues to grow, more people are receiving the help they need, but it is essential to seek treatment early. Discussing mental health with loved ones and seeking professional support should never be overlooked in the wake of a traumatic event.
Pursuing Compensation for PTSD After a Car Accident
If you’ve been in a car accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation for a variety of losses, including physical injuries, property damage, and medical bills. You are also entitled to compensation for emotional and psychological harm, including PTSD. This type of damage falls under non-economic losses, similar to compensation for physical pain and suffering.
However, recovering compensation for PTSD can be challenging. Insurance adjusters may downplay the severity of your symptoms or accuse you of exaggerating. They may even offer a low settlement that doesn’t reflect the full extent of your emotional distress. To strengthen your claim:
- Work closely with a healthcare professional to document your PTSD diagnosis and treatment.
- Keep records of any therapy sessions, medications, or doctor visits related to your mental health.
- Share your struggles with friends, family, and professionals to ensure your condition is fully understood.
By taking these steps, you can build a solid foundation for your claim. With the right documentation, an experienced car accident lawyer can fight for the compensation you deserve for your emotional injuries, including PTSD.
Contact The Jackson Law Group Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD after a car accident, you don’t have to face it alone. At The Jackson Law Group, our Virginia car accident attorneys understand the profound impact mental health injuries can have on your life. We are committed to securing meaningful compensation for both your physical and emotional damages. Insurance companies are often more concerned with their bottom line than your recovery—let us fight on your behalf.
Call us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help you navigate the claims process with confidence.