Many people know that car crashes can lead to catastrophic injuries, such as spinal cord or brain injuries. But those aren’t the only injuries that can occur. In some cases, car wrecks can lead to emotional changes that can last a long time. This can lead to the person replaying the crash in their mind or feeling panicked if they have to get out in traffic.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can sometimes occur after a car crash, particularly if it’s a serious crash. If the crash involved pain, trapped occupants, children or a fatality, iy can leave lasting psychological symptoms.
PTSD can be hard to spot
PTSD symptoms can be hard to notice. They sometimes include intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares and a desire to avoid reminders of the crash. Some people may suffer from anxiety, sleep problems, guilt or emotional numbness. In some cases, a person with PTSD because of a crash may stop driving, avoid the area where the crash occurred or avoid getting into vehicles.
The symptoms of PTSD can have profound effects on the victim’s family life and ability to continue working. Being unable to drive or travel in a vehicle can severely limit those, and it can make it impossible to get medical care or go to mental health appointments.
Because people are typically focused on physical injuries and property damage after a crash, they may not realize how the wreck has impacted their mental health. PTSD is a serious condition that requires immediate attention, which can be long-term and costly. Victims may opt to pursue a compensation claim to assist with covering the financial damages caused by the crash.
