If you were involved in a serious crash, you may be wondering: Can PTSD or fear of driving be part of a car accident claim? The short answer is yes. While physical injuries like broken bones and whiplash are easier to see, emotional trauma can be just as damaging and just as real.
In New Jersey, you have the right to seek compensation not only for physical injuries but also for the mental and emotional impact of a crash. That includes post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and phobias that may prevent you from driving or even riding in a car again. At Camili & Capo, we understand how deeply car accidents can affect your life and we’re here to help you pursue the full value of your injury claim, including emotional suffering.
What Is PTSD After a Car Accident?
PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a mental health condition triggered by a traumatic event, such as a serious car crash. It can happen to drivers, passengers, pedestrians, or even bystanders.
Common symptoms of PTSD after a car accident include:
- Flashbacks or nightmares about the crash
- Severe anxiety when driving or riding in a car
- Panic attacks at the thought of getting on the road
- Avoidance of driving routes, highways, or intersections
- Irritability, mood swings, or sleep disturbances
- Feeling emotionally numb or detached
These symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years and they often require therapy, medication, or both.
Fear of Driving After an Accident: Is It PTSD?
Not everyone develops full-blown PTSD. However, a fear of driving (also called vehophobia) is still a valid emotional response after a traumatic accident. If that fear interferes with your ability to work, take care of your family, or perform daily tasks, it can become a major part of your personal injury claim.
For example, someone who once commuted daily may now need to take expensive ride shares, quit their job, or change their entire lifestyle. These changes have financial and emotional consequences, and they deserve to be considered in your claim.
Can You Be Compensated for PTSD or Fear of Driving?
Yes. In New Jersey, your car accident claim can include non-economic damages, or losses that don't come with a receipt but still affect your life. These include:
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Mental anguish
- Loss of independence or mobility
If you’re diagnosed with PTSD or another anxiety disorder after a crash, your attorney can include those damages as part of your injury claim.
What Evidence Do You Need?
Insurance companies won’t just take your word for it. To include PTSD or fear of driving in a car accident claim, your legal team will need to present strong documentation, such as:
- Medical records from your primary care doctor or hospital visit
- Diagnosis from a licensed therapist, psychiatrist, or psychologist
- Treatment records showing ongoing counseling, therapy, or medication
- Journal entries or personal statements about how your daily life has changed
- Testimony from family, friends, or coworkers
- Expert opinions from mental health professionals or vocational specialists
At Camili & Capo, we work with a network of professionals who can evaluate your condition and provide the expert support needed to build a strong case.
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How PTSD Can Impact the Value of Your Claim
When emotional trauma is involved, it can increase the total value of your car accident claim. That’s because emotional distress doesn’t just affect how you feel. Instead, it interferes with how you live.
You may need:
- Extended time off work or a complete job change
- Ongoing therapy or counseling
- Help with daily tasks or transportation
- Lifestyle accommodations like ride-share services or relocation
These aren’t just personal problems, they’re legal damages. A well-prepared case can show that the emotional fallout from the crash has long-term consequences that deserve compensation.
Challenges to Including Emotional Trauma in a Claim
While you can include PTSD or fear of driving in a car accident claim, there are some challenges:
- Insurance companies may downplay emotional trauma: They often try to argue that your symptoms are exaggerated or unrelated to the crash.
- You may feel pressure to “prove” you’re not okay: Unlike a cast or X-ray, mental health injuries aren’t visible. That doesn’t make them any less serious.
- You must show a direct link to the crash: Your attorney will need to show that your emotional condition is a direct result of the car accident, not a preexisting issue.
This is where having an experienced personal injury lawyer makes all the difference. At Camili & Capo, we build compelling claims backed by evidence, expert support, and a clear story of how the crash affected every part of your life.
What Should You Do If You're Experiencing PTSD After a Crash?
If you believe you're suffering from PTSD or fear of driving after a car accident, take these steps right away:
- See a doctor or mental health provider: Getting a proper diagnosis is essential, not just for your health, but for your legal claim.
- Keep a journal: Document your symptoms, emotional struggles, and how they’re affecting your daily life.
- Stay consistent with treatment: Attend all appointments and follow your provider’s recommendations.
- Talk to a lawyer early: The sooner you contact a personal injury attorney, the sooner they can start protecting your rights and gathering the right evidence.
Can You Still File a Claim If You Didn’t Have Physical Injuries?
Yes. While most car accident claims involve physical injuries, you may still be able to file a claim for emotional trauma alone, especially if the crash was serious, life-threatening, or caused lasting psychological effects.
It’s always best to consult with a legal team to find out what your case may be worth. You don’t have to wait until you hit rock bottom to get help.
Similar Post: How Do You Rebuild Your Life After a Devastating Auto Crash?
Get Legal Help for PTSD or Emotional Distress After a Car Accident
So, can PTSD or fear of driving be part of a car accident claim? Absolutely. Emotional injuries are real and they deserve just as much attention as broken bones or hospital bills. If you’re suffering mentally after a serious crash, you’re not alone. And you’re not without legal options.
At Camili & Capo, we know how devastating the aftermath of a car accident can be: physically, financially, and emotionally. Our attorneys will take your emotional distress seriously and fight to get you the compensation you need to recover and rebuild.
Call us today at (973) 834-8457 or fill out our online contact form for a free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, help you understand your options, and handle the legal legwork so you can focus on healing, not fighting with insurance companies. We work with clients from East Rutherford, Montclair, North Bergen, and throughout New Jersey.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not establish an attorney-client relationship. It should not be considered as legal advice. For personalized legal assistance, please consult our team directly.
