Every year, approximately 1% of the U.S. population is injured in car crashes; that’s 3,000,000 injured Americans every year! People are accustomed to hearing about damage to necks and backs from car wrecks. However, according to Dr. Todd Buckley with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for PTSD, “Mental health difficulties such as post-traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety are problems survivors of MVAs Injuries in Motor Vehicle Accidents face may exhibit.”
There are factors that can affect whether a person will develop PTSD following a car crash. Some of them relate to the condition of the person before the crash. Others refer to the nature of the crash itself. There are also post-accident factors.
Victims who have pre-incident mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, or poor social support (family or economic issues), are at increased risk for PTSD. People who have experienced emotional pain before an incident are more likely to suffer PTSD after an incident.
The factors of the crash itself that can lead to PTSD are the potential life-threat (the sensation that your life is in danger), the severity of injury, or the loss of life of others. “As the amount of physical injury and fear of dying increase, the chance of PTSD also increases.”
Post-incident factors include the rate of physical recovery, the amount of social support received from friends and family, and the level of re-engagement in work and social activities. The more isolated a person feels from his or her routine, the more likely that person will develop PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
PTSD can affect people in different ways, including nightmares, “flashbacks,” or extreme anxiety when encountering reminders of the trauma. Some people become physically ill when reacting to the stress of PTSD. Additionally, individuals with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) may experience unique challenges in coping with PTSD
We find that the most important advice we can give our clients is that feelings of anxiety, depression, or PTSD after a severe accident due to distracted driving are NORMAL, and they can be TREATED. No one should suffer needlessly because of the negligence of a bad driver!
Contact Us If You Suffer From Car Crash PTSD
If you, a family member, or a friend has PTSD, anxiety, or depression from a car crash, let us help you! Our experienced team, including car accident attorney, is here to provide the support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
Attorney Terry Bryant
Terry Bryant is Board Certified in personal injury trial law, which means his extensive knowledge of the law has been recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, setting him apart from many other injury attorneys. The 22 years he spent as a Municipal Judge, Spring Valley Village, TX also provides him keen insight into the Texas court system. That experience also helps shape his perspective on personal injury cases and how they might resolve. This unique insight benefits his clients. [ Attorney Bio ]
