What Happens When a Car Accident Causes PTSD or Trauma?

When people think of car accidents, they often focus on physical injuries—broken bones, whiplash, or cuts and bruises. But for many victims, the most lasting damage isn’t visible. Emotional trauma and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) are very real consequences of serious crashes and can affect your daily life long after the wreck is over.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, nightmares, or fear of driving after an accident, you’re not alone. And you may be entitled to compensation for these emotional injuries.

PTSD After a Car Crash: What Is It?

PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after a person experiences or witnesses a traumatic event—like a violent or life-threatening car crash.

Symptoms of PTSD don’t always appear right away. They may show up days, weeks, or even months later. Common signs include:

• Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks of the crash
• Nightmares or difficulty sleeping
• Irritability or sudden mood changes
• Avoidance of driving or riding in vehicles
• Heightened anxiety or panic attacks
• Trouble concentrating

These symptoms can make it hard to return to normal life, work, school, or even getting behind the wheel again.

How Common Is PTSD After an Accident?

Studies estimate that up to 30% of car accident survivors develop PTSD. The risk increases for people who:

• Were in severe or high-speed crashes
• Witnessed injuries or fatalities
• Have a history of anxiety, depression, or trauma
• Had little control during the incident

Even a “minor” accident can cause deep psychological scars, especially in children, teens, and those already dealing with stress or mental health conditions.

Can You File a Claim for PTSD After a Crash?

Yes. In Illinois, personal injury claims can include non-economic damages, which cover an accident’s emotional and psychological impact, not just medical bills or lost wages.

If you’re suffering from PTSD or trauma, you may be able to recover compensation for:

• Therapy and mental health treatment
• Medication costs
• Lost income due to emotional distress
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of enjoyment of life

The key is proving the connection between the accident and your trauma and showing how it affects your day-to-day functioning.

Proving Emotional Trauma in an Injury Claim

Unlike a broken bone that shows up on an X-ray, PTSD and emotional distress are harder to see—but no less real. To support your case, you’ll need solid documentation, including:

• Medical records from a psychiatrist, psychologist, or therapist
• Diagnosis of PTSD or anxiety disorder
• Treatment plans and progress notes
• Testimony from mental health professionals
• Personal journals or written accounts of how your life has changed

In some cases, friends, family, or coworkers may be able to testify about your behavior and emotional health before and after the crash.

Local PTSD & Trauma Resources in Chicago

If you’re dealing with PTSD or emotional trauma after a car accident, it’s important to know you’re not alone. There are excellent resources in Chicago that can help:

The Road Home Program – Rush University Medical Center

Specializing in PTSD and trauma recovery for veterans and civilians. Offers individual therapy, intensive outpatient programs, and peer support.
Location: 1645 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL
Website: roadhomeprogram.org
Phone: (312) 942-8387

Chicago Department of Public Health – Mental Health Centers

City-operated clinics offering counseling and trauma-focused therapy on a sliding scale.
Locations throughout the city
Website: Chicago.gov
Phone: (312) 747-1020 

H4: NAMI Chicago (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

Provides mental health education, support groups, and a helpline for individuals and families coping with PTSD and emotional trauma.
Location: 1801 W Warner Ave, Suite 202, Chicago, IL
Website: namichicago.org
Helpline: (833) 626-4244

Center for Contextual Change

A trauma-informed counseling center offering therapy for PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Location: 9239 Gross Point Rd, Skokie, IL (serves greater Chicago area)
Website: centerforcontextualchange.org
Phone: (847) 676-4447

Insurance Companies May Downplay Mental Health Claims

Insurance adjusters are quick to compensate for visible injuries, but emotional trauma often gets overlooked or minimized. They may argue:

• You’re exaggerating your symptoms
• You had pre-existing mental health issues
• Your PTSD isn’t related to the crash
• You don’t need ongoing treatment

This is why having an experienced personal injury attorney on your side is critical. A lawyer can help gather the necessary evidence, consult with medical experts, and ensure your claim reflects the full extent of your suffering.

How Staver Accident Injury Lawyers Can Help You Heal

At Staver Accident Injury Lawyers, P.C., we know trauma is just as serious as physical injury. Our Chicago legal team has represented countless accident victims dealing with the aftermath of PTSD and emotional distress.

We understand how hard it can be to talk about mental health struggles—but we’re here to listen, advocate, and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

Our approach includes:

• Connecting you with trusted mental health professionals
• Thoroughly documenting your emotional injuries
• Negotiating aggressively with insurers
• Taking your case to court if needed

Don’t Suffer in Silence—Reach Out Today to a Compassionate Personal Injury Attorney

If you’ve been in a car accident and are experiencing fear, anxiety, or PTSD symptoms, it’s important to get help, and you don’t have to go through it alone. Emotional trauma is valid, and you deserve justice for all your injuries, seen and unseen.

Call Staver Accident Injury Lawyers at (312) 736-0761 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us help you take the next step toward healing and holding the at-fault party accountable.