A serious car crash can happen to any person at any time. According to data from the Arizona Department of Transportation, there were 37,075 motor vehicle accident injuries reported in the state in 2023. Following an accident, it is imperative that injured victims are able to get immediate medical attention. Your health takes priority—and that includes your mental health. 

A car accident can cause serious adverse psychological and emotional effects. Victims need the proper care to make a full recovery. At The Law Office of Paul J. Dombeck, PLLC, we understand the importance of mental health for car accident victims. Here, our Phoenix car accident attorney highlights coping strategies for recovering from the psychological effects of a crash. 

An Overview of the Common Psychological Effects of a Car Accident

Most people are aware that a serious motor vehicle collision can take a serious toll on the occupants. Common physical injuries include whiplash, torn ligaments, broken bones, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). These injuries require immediate medical care. At the same time, many people do not fully appreciate the terrible—even debilitating—effects that a car crash can have on a person’s mental health. The impact can be significant, and proper care is required. A peer-reviewed study (Psychological consequences of motor vehicle accidents: A systematic review) found that the main adverse psychological effects of a car accident are as follows: 

• Depression: Depression is a common psychological effect of a car accident in Phoenix. It is often triggered by physical injuries. Many victims experience persistent sadness, hopelessness, or a loss of interest in activities they once enjoyed. Depression may impair relationships, work performance, and overall quality of life. Without proper treatment, symptoms can worsen over time. Proper support for depression is a must. 

• Anxiety: Anxiety is another common post-car accident symptom. Anxiety can often manifest itself as excessive worry, nervousness, or irrational fears about future driving or accidents. Some of the most frequent symptoms include a racing heart, sweating, trembling, and even panic attacks when faced with reminders of the crash. In some cases, anxiety can lead to avoidance behaviors—even refusing to drive or ride in a car.

• Insomnia: Sleep is incredibly important. Not just for physical and mental recovery after a crash but also for general health and wellness. Unfortunately, insomnia is a common psychological effect of a car accident. The stress and trauma of the event often disrupt sleep patterns. It can make it difficult for victims to fall asleep and/or stay asleep. Nightmares or intrusive thoughts about the crash can further hinder restful sleep. Chronic insomnia not only affects physical health but also exacerbates a person’s emotional distress. 

• Travel Phobia: A person who has been the victim of a serious car accident may develop travel phobia. You will also sometimes hear this referred to by the more clinical-sounding term “vehophobia.” The fear can range from mild discomfort to debilitating avoidance. In some cases, travel phobia can severely limit a person’s mobility and their independence. Victims may experience panic attacks, sweating, or heart palpitations when traveling. 
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe psychological condition that can arise after a car accident. Victims may relive the trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts, leading to intense emotional distress. PTSD is a very serious matter and always requires a professional diagnosis and proper care. It can disrupt relationships, work, and overall quality of life if left untreated.

Coping Strategies for Mental Health After a Serious Automobile Accident

Car accident victims need to take care of their mental health. While it is relatively common for serious collisions to cause people to endure adverse mental health effects, that does not mean that you have to suffer in silence. The right coping strategies can make a big difference. Here are some of the most notable coping strategies: 

• Seek Professional Support: Mental health is complicated. Do not go it alone. Professional care can make a big difference. A licensed mental health professional—whether a psychologist or a therapist—can help in processing the emotional impact of a car accident. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore feelings and manage symptoms. 

• • Lean on Your Support System: Your personal support network can also provide a lot of help during challenging times. Friends and family can provide emotional stability and reassurance during recovery. Talking about your feelings with trusted individuals can help alleviate loneliness. 
  • Maintain a Healthy Routine: For people dealing with mental health challenges, a healthy routine can be very beneficial. Structure and consistency in daily life—such as regular meals, exercise, and sleep—can play a significant role in mental health recovery. You should prioritize self-care after a bad automobile collision. 
• Consider Joining a Support Group: Finally, connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma can provide a sense of validation and belonging. Support groups offer a platform to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and draw inspiration from others. 

Car Accident Victims Need Access to All Available Resources

Following a serious car crash in Arizona, injured victims need access to all available resources, including compensation, to help them get support for any mental health issues. A top-rated Phoenix, AZ, car accident lawyer can review your case and take action to help you fight for the maximum compensation, including for medical bills, physical therapy, mental health counseling, lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Psychological effects are no less real and no less worthy of treatment—and compensation―than physical effects. 

Set Up a Free Case Review With a Top-Tier Phoenix Auto Accident Attorney Today

At The Law Office of Paul J. Dombeck, PLLC, our Phoenix car accident lawyer advocates aggressively for justice for victims and families. You should be fully and fairly compensated for the adverse psychological effects of a bad crash. Reach out to us by phone or contact our personal injury law firm online for a free case review. With a law office in Phoenix, we handle motor vehicle accident claims in Maricopa County and throughout all of the surrounding region in Arizona.