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Attorney at Gina Corena & Associates
Practice Areas: Personal Injury
When people think about car accidents, they often focus on the physical injuries—broken bones, whiplash, or bruises. But what about the emotional and psychological trauma that lingers long after the crash? Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a very real and often overlooked consequence of a car accident.
Many accident survivors struggle with flashbacks, anxiety, and nightmares. They may avoid driving altogether or experience extreme fear when they get behind the wheel. However, proving PTSD for a legal claim is not as straightforward as physical injuries. Insurance companies may question its legitimacy, making it harder for victims to get the compensation they deserve.
If you’re wondering, can you get PTSD from a car accident?—the answer is yes. And if you’re dealing with post-traumatic stress after an auto accident, it’s essential to understand your legal rights and how to prove your case.
PTSD is a serious mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as a car accident. It affects how the brain processes fear and stress, sometimes leading to long-term emotional distress.
Car accidents are one of the leading causes of PTSD outside of military combat. Studies suggest that up to 39.2% of accident survivors experience PTSD symptoms within six months of the crash. The severity of the trauma, personal mental health history, and the circumstances of the accident all play a role in whether someone develops PTSD.
Some people assume PTSD only happens in severe crashes involving fatalities, but even minor accidents can trigger intense psychological distress. For many, the sound of screeching tires, honking horns, or sudden braking can bring back terrifying memories.
PTSD doesn’t always appear immediately after an accident. Symptoms can develop weeks, months, or even years later, making it difficult for victims to recognize the connection between their mental state and the crash.
Common PTSD symptoms after a car accident include:
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to consult a mental health professional. PTSD is not just about fear—it can affect your daily life, relationships, and ability to work. Seeking help early can improve your chances of recovery and strengthen your legal claim if you pursue compensation.
Proving PTSD can be challenging because it’s an invisible injury. Unlike broken bones that show up on an X-ray, PTSD requires a clinical diagnosis and strong supporting evidence. Insurance companies are often skeptical of mental health claims, so having the correct documentation is crucial.
“Unlike physical injuries, PTSD is an ‘invisible injury.’ This makes medical documentation and expert testimony crucial when seeking compensation.” — American Psychological Association (APA)
Some victims ignore PTSD symptoms at first, assuming they will go away. However, delaying diagnosis can weaken a legal claim. If PTSD develops later, proving it was caused by the accident becomes more difficult. Seeking medical care early ensures you have clear documentation of your condition.
Nevada follows a fault-based system for car accident claims. This means the at-fault party is responsible for covering damages, including emotional distress and PTSD-related expenses.
“Nevada law allows accident victims to seek non-economic damages for PTSD, but claimants must present clear medical evidence to substantiate their case.” — Nevada Personal Injury Law Guide.
A personal injury claim can include compensation for:
Since PTSD claims involve subjective pain and suffering damages, insurance companies may resist paying fair compensation. Working with a personal injury lawyer can significantly improve your chances of receiving the settlement you deserve.
Insurance companies will look for any reason to minimize PTSD claims. A lawyer can help by:
Many accident survivors don’t realize they’re entitled to compensation for PTSD. Consulting with an attorney can help navigate the legal process and ensure you receive the financial support needed for recovery.
| Step | Action Required | Why It’s Important |
| 1 | Seek Medical Evaluation | A formal PTSD diagnosis is essential evidence |
| 2 | Document Symptoms | Keep a journal of flashbacks, anxiety, and triggers |
| 3 | Obtain Witness Statements | Statements from family/friends help validate emotional distress |
| 4 | Consult a PTSD Lawyer | Helps build a strong case against insurers |
| 5 | File a Claim or Lawsuit | Pursue compensation for therapy, lost wages, and emotional suffering |
Yes. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of PTSD. Even if you were not physically injured, the emotional trauma of a crash can lead to PTSD symptoms.
PTSD varies for each person. Some recover in a few months, while others may struggle for years without proper treatment.
A medical diagnosis, therapy records, and expert testimony are key to proving PTSD. The more evidence you have, the stronger your case.
You may be entitled to medical expenses, therapy costs, lost wages, and pain & suffering related to PTSD.
A lawyer is highly recommended, as insurance companies often dispute PTSD claims. A skilled attorney can maximize your settlement.
PTSD is a serious condition that deserves recognition and fair compensation. If you’re having trouble proving that your emotional trauma or PTSD is the result of a car accident, speaking with a personal injury lawyer can give you the advice and key to successfully receiving the compensation you deserve. Insurance companies will fight personal injury claims in any way they can to reduce the amount they must pay to the victim, particularly for PTSD claims.
At Gina Corena & Associates, we help accident victims prove PTSD claims, gather evidence and negotiate fair settlements. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward recovery.
As founder of Gina Corena & Associates, she is dedicated to fighting for the rights of the people who suffer life-changing personal injuries in car, truck and motorcycle accidents as well as other types of personal injury. Gina feels fortunate to serve the Nevada community and hold wrongdoers accountable for their harm to her clients.
