Car accident injuries
Psychological Injury Claims After a Car Accident
The effects of a car accident aren't only physical. Anxiety, driving phobia and PTSD are real injuries, and if someone else was at fault you could claim compensation for them too.
Last reviewed: Reviewed by the Auto Crash Claims editorial team
How it happens in a car accident
A car accident can be frightening, and for many people the psychological effects last longer than the physical ones. Anxiety, flashbacks, trouble sleeping and a fear of driving are common, and can amount to a recognised psychological injury such as PTSD.
What a claim could be worth
Based on the Judicial College Guidelines, psychological injury claims typically range from a few thousand pounds for a short-lived reaction, up to £60,000 or more for severe, long-lasting post-traumatic stress disorder.
These are indicative ranges only, not a promise. The real figure depends on a medical assessment and your financial losses. Get an instant estimate with our compensation calculator, or start your free claim check below.
Common symptoms
- Anxiety, flashbacks or nightmares about the accident
- Avoiding driving or being a passenger
- Trouble sleeping, low mood or irritability
Not every injury from a car accident is one you can see. Many people find that the hardest part is getting back behind the wheel, or shaking off the anxiety and broken sleep that follow a bad crash. These psychological effects are genuine injuries, and they deserve to be taken seriously.
If the accident wasn’t your fault, a psychological injury claim can recognise the anxiety, driving phobia or PTSD you’ve been left with, alongside any physical injury. Checking is free, confidential and carries no obligation.
Evidence that helps your claim
- An assessment by a medical or psychological expert
- Details of the accident and the at-fault driver
- A note of any counselling or treatment and its effect on work
Frequently asked questions
Can I claim for psychological injury after a car accident?
Yes. A recognised psychological injury such as anxiety, a driving phobia or PTSD can be claimed, either on its own or alongside a physical injury. It's assessed by a medical expert, and financial losses like time off work are added on top.
Is PTSD from a car accident a real claim?
Absolutely. Post-traumatic stress disorder is a recognised condition, and if another driver caused the accident that triggered it, you can claim compensation for it.
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