How to Prove Emotional Trauma in a Car Accident Claim

At Brown & Hobkirk, PLLC we see firsthand how car crashes leave behind injuries that no one can see. It’s not just broken bones or damaged vehicles. Emotional trauma after a car accident can affect your daily life, your relationships, and even your job. Whatever you’re feeling, your trauma is real, and you deserve support.

What Is Emotional Trauma in Car Accident Claims?

Experiencing emotional distress after an auto accident is natural. Collisions are frightening events. Legally speaking, mental trauma after a car accident refers to the psychological pain or mental distress you experience because of the crash. Even if there are no visible injuries, symptoms of post-car accident trauma include:

• Anxiety or panic attacks, especially related to driving or riding in a car
• Depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
• Fearfulness or avoidance behaviors, like refusing to drive or ride in cars

Evidence to Prove Emotional Distress After a Crash

Insurance companies don’t always understand emotional trauma, but our car accident attorneys will gather robust evidence to support your claim for compensation. Examples include:

• Medical and therapy records – Doctors and counselors document your symptoms and treatment in their notes, describing the symptoms you are experiencing and medications (if any) you have been prescribed.
• Personal journals – Writing down your emotions and daily struggles helps show the impact of your trauma after a car accident.
• Statements from loved ones – Friends, family, or co-workers can share how they’ve seen you change since the crash.
• Expert testimony – Therapists or psychologists can explain how trauma manifests in a way insurers and courts understand.

Solid supporting evidence paints a clear picture of your emotional distress and makes your experiences understandable to others.

What Factors Impact the Outcome of an Emotional Trauma Case?

Several factors can shape the outcome of an emotional trauma claim. The severity of your distress plays a significant role — stronger symptoms often lead to more substantial claims. If your trauma lasts for months or even years, it may indicate more profound emotional harm, making documentation especially important.

How your trauma affects your daily life also matters. Struggles with work, relationships, or simple routines can make a claim stronger. Consistently seeing a therapist or counselor helps with healing and strengthens your case. It shows that your trauma is real and that you’re taking steps to address it.

Steps to Strengthen Your Car Accident Case

Taking these steps can strengthen your claim:

• See a therapist regularly and follow their recommendations.
• Take any prescribed medications to treat your symptoms as directed.
• Keep a journal to track your emotions and daily struggles.
• Talk to trusted people who can vouch for the changes they’ve seen in you.
• Stay off social media when discussing your accident or emotional health.
• Work closely with a car accident lawyer to build the strongest case possible.

These steps help show the true impact of your trauma and give your claim a solid foundation.

What Compensation is Possible for Emotional Trauma in Arizona?

In Arizona, emotional distress claims can qualify you for financial recovery beyond just medical bills. You may be eligible to receive compensation for:

• Mental health counseling or therapy expenses
• Loss of enjoyment of daily activities or hobbies
• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish

Contact Brown & Hobkirk, PLLC Today

At Brown & Hobkirk, PLLC you’re more than just another case to us. You’re someone we genuinely care about. Let us fight to reclaim your peace of mind after a car crash. Reach out today for a free consultation with a skilled car accident lawyer.