Psychological Shock After a Car Accident

A car accident can leave behind more than physical injuries and pain. It can also affect a victim emotionally and mentally, making it difficult to move past the accident. 

Psychological shock is a common response to trauma, and it often leaves an injured person feeling stunned and overwhelmed. The brain struggles to process the event, leading to confusion and a flood of emotions. After the traumatic event, some car accident victims may experience ongoing emotional distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Recognizing psychological shock after a car accident and learning how to handle it is key to recovery. Working with a mental health professional can help car accident survivors deal with traumatic shock. A car accident lawyer can help victims seek damages for psychological injuries, including the cost of medical treatment.  

Symptoms of Shock After an Accident 

Why are you stunned after a car accident? Shock after a car accident is not just a mental experience – it can affect your mental and physical health. Symptoms of emotional trauma can disrupt your daily life and leave you feeling disconnected. 

Common shock symptoms you might face after a crash include: 

• Physical symptoms – You may experience symptoms such as racing or rapid heartbeat, blood pressure changes, shallow breathing, sleep disturbances, trembling or shaking, and dizziness.
• Mental symptoms – For example, you might have confusion, disorientation, memory gaps, and focus or concentration issues.
• Emotional symptoms – You may feel persistent anxiety, numbness, and detachment from reality.

How to Deal with Shock After a Car Accident 

Some practical steps can help manage psychological shock, including: 

• Seeking medical help – See a doctor to talk about your symptoms and address the potential physical manifestations of shock. Medical documentation of your shock is critical for your long-term health and your injury claim.
• Avoiding stressful situations – Minimize high-pressure environments to help your mind heal.  Giving yourself time to recover can make a substantial positive difference in your recovery.
• Being patient with yourself – Don’t rush back into your routine. Allow yourself to rest and recover emotionally. Taking on too much before you’re ready could cause further unnecessary stress.

Trauma Recovery Tips After an Auto Accident 

Getting over the shock from a car crash doesn’t happen immediately, but there are ways to aid the process, such as: 

• Leaning on your support system – Talk to your family and friends for support during this time. Consider finding a therapist if you feel you want or need professional mental health support.
• Practicing self-care – Engage in mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and gentle physical activity to manage stress and reduce the shock following a car accident.
• Joining a support group – Hearing from others who’ve been through similar experiences can be a comforting and empowering reminder that you’re not alone.

What Kind of Compensation Can You Receive for a Car Accident that Leads to Shock? 

You have the right to pursue compensation for a car accident that causes psychological shock, including: 

• Medical bills – You can include all medical costs associated with treating your shock, including therapy expenses, prescription medications, and doctor’s appointments.
• Lost wages – You can include missed income in your claim if treating your physical and emotional injuries requires you to miss work.
• Pain and suffering – You can pursue compensation for the pain and mental anguish you’ve dealt with due to the accident. 

Contact a Maryland Car Accident Attorney 

You don’t have to deal with the emotional shock after a car crash alone. At the law firm of Cohen & Dwin, P.A., we are ready to handle your car accident claim. We’ll fight for the compensation you need while you concentrate on your health and recovery. 

Call (410) 593-1590 or contact us now to set up a free consultation with a compassionate Baltimore car accident attorney.