6 Most Common Psychological Effects From a Car Accident

The sudden and often catastrophic nature of car accidents can shatter your sense of control, leaving you feeling vulnerable. The physical injuries sustained in the collision can lead to chronic pain and disruptions in daily life activities, increasing the emotional impact of the tragic event.

Common psychological effects from a car accident include:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Acute stress disorder
• Panic attacks
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

As an experienced car accident lawyer in Norfolk, I understand the deep psychological wounds injured victims can experience. While the insurance company and the at-fault party will want to ignore the collision’s emotional effect, this can be just as disruptive to your life as physical injuries and should not be overlooked. Call today for a free consultation.

1. Depression

Depression is a mental health condition characterized by lasting feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in activities you once enjoyed. It goes beyond the normal ups and downs of everyday life, impacting how you function on a daily basis.

The symptoms of depression include:

• Continuous sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities
• Fatigue and decreased energy levels
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Irritability or agitation
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Being injured in a collision can trigger depression in certain victims. Also, if you were diagnosed with depression before the crash, your preexisting symptoms can worsen as a result of the traumatic incident.

You might know what to expect physically after a car accident, but the psychological effects often catch survivors off guard. It is important to recognize the symptoms and accept help.

2. Anxiety

This is a common response to a traumatic event. You may experience a range of symptoms, including persistent worry or fear about driving and intrusive thoughts or flashbacks of the crash.

The unexpected nature of car accidents can leave you feeling on edge, with a heightened sense of danger and a decreased sense of control. Physical injuries from the collision may also contribute to anxiety symptoms, particularly if they result in a permanent disability.

As an experienced personal injury lawyer, I understand that my clients may be in critical condition after a car accident. However, this should not prevent you from getting five-star legal services. If you can’t come to my office, I will drive to your location so we can talk about your situation in person. I could also set up video calls to keep you updated about the progress of your case.

3. Insomnia

Insomnia can be a disruptive psychological effect experienced by car accident victims. You may have intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or nightmares related to the crash, making it challenging to unwind at bedtime. Physical injuries sustained in the crash can further disrupt sleep patterns.

You may have insomnia if, despite your best efforts, you are unable to fall asleep easily each night, and when you do manage to, you frequently wake up. As a result, you begin each day feeling exhausted, with diminished energy and difficulty concentrating on work tasks.

4. Acute Stress Reaction

This psychological effect is characterized by a range of symptoms that typically occur within the first few weeks after the incident. You may have intense feelings of shock or disbelief immediately after the accident, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat and trembling.

Additionally, you may experience emotional numbing or avoidance behaviors, such as avoiding reminders of the accident or withdrawing from social interactions. While acute stress reactions typically go away over time as you process the trauma, it is best to seek guidance from a mental health specialist.

5. Panic Attacks

A panic attack is a sudden and intense surge of overwhelming fear that can strike without warning. You can recognize a panic attack by a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain, and feelings of impending doom. These symptoms can be so severe that you may think you are having a heart attack or are dying.

Following a car accident, you may be particularly vulnerable to experiencing panic attacks due to the intense fear associated with the event. The sights, sounds, or smells associated with the accident, such as the sound of screeching tires or the sight of damaged vehicles, can serve as triggers for panic attacks.

6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

This mental health condition can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event, such as a car accident. This is a serious condition that requires professional treatment, typically involving psychotherapy and medication. The support of loved ones can also help individuals overcome their traumatic experiences.

Symptoms of PTSD after a car accident may include:

• Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event
• Intense emotional distress when exposed to reminders of the crash
• Avoidance of situations or activities associated with the trauma
• Negative changes in mood or cognition
• Irritability or difficulty concentrating

As an experienced car accident attorney, I understand that my clients are interested in concrete solutions. With a track record of successful case results, I know how to create an effective legal strategy.

Call Atkinson Law for a Free, No-Obligation Consultation

Finding a personal injury lawyer with a flawless track record of five-star Google reviews isn’t easy. As an experienced personal injury lawyer in Norfolk, I am known for treating clients like cherished friends and family. My clients know me personally and can reach me directly.

If you were involved in a car accident, I am here to guide you through any legal problems and protect your rights. As your attorney, I will show the full psychological impact of the traumatic event and fight for maximum compensation. Contact me today to share your experience.