Car accidents don’t just leave dents and broken bones.
They can also leave something invisible but just as damaging: emotional trauma.
From sleepless nights to panic behind the wheel, the mental impact of an auto crash can stay with you long after the physical injuries heal. The legal system recognizes this but only if you know how to document and prove it.
Let’s walk through how emotional distress fits into a Texas personal injury case—and what you can do if you’re suffering in silence.
What Is Emotional Trauma After a Car Accident?
Emotional trauma is the psychological fallout of a traumatic experience (like a serious crash). It’s often referred to in legal claims as:
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Common symptoms include:
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Depression
- Fear of driving or riding in a vehicle
- Flashbacks or nightmares
- Social withdrawal
- Mood swings or irritability
- Sleep disturbances
You don’t have to be hospitalized to feel these effects. Many clients report emotional symptoms days or weeks after the crash, especially if children were in the car or if the crash was particularly violent.
Can You Sue for Emotional Distress in Texas?
Yes, Texas law allows injury victims to seek compensation for emotional trauma. These are called non-economic damages and are often included alongside:
- Medical bills (economic damages)
- Lost income (economic damages)
- Pain and suffering (non-economic damages)
- Mental anguish (non-economic damages)
To claim them, you’ll need to show that your emotional distress is real, measurable, and tied to the crash.
How to Prove Emotional Trauma After a Crash
Insurance companies don’t pay for what they can’t see. That means if you’re claiming emotional trauma, it needs to be documented.
Here’s how to do it:
1. Get a Psychological Evaluation
A licensed therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist can diagnose trauma-related conditions like PTSD or anxiety.
2. Keep a Symptom Journal
Write down how you feel day-to-day: your moods, fears, panic episodes, trouble sleeping, etc. This can strengthen your claim.
3. Attend All Medical Appointments
Even if it’s “just stress,” your doctor should know. Medical records matter in any personal injury claim.
4. Tell Your Attorney Everything
Many clients downplay their emotional suffering. Don’t. Your legal team needs the full picture to fight for the full compensation.
Emotional Trauma in Children and Passengers
Children are especially vulnerable to psychological effects after a crash. If your child:
- Refuses to ride in a car
- Has nightmares
- Becomes withdrawn or anxious
- Develops separation anxiety
…it’s worth speaking with a child psychologist. Their emotional trauma may also be part of the case.
Passengers—friends, spouses, coworkers—can also suffer emotional harm even if they weren’t physically hurt.
When Emotional Trauma Becomes PTSD
Not every car crash results in post-traumatic stress disorder—but when it does, it can be severe and long-lasting.
PTSD after a car accident may include:
- Replaying the crash in your mind
- Avoidance of driving routes or intersections
- Sudden anger, fear, or panic
- Being easily startled or hyper-alert
A PTSD diagnosis can significantly increase the value of your claim—if it’s well documented.
How Emotional Trauma Affects Case Value
Cases involving emotional trauma tend to have higher settlement potential than purely physical injury claims, especially when:
- The crash was violent or traumatic
- Children were involved
- Victims can no longer drive, work, or function normally
- Medical documentation and therapist reports back the claim
But this only happens if the emotional harm is proven. That’s why having the right legal team matters.
FAQs About Emotional Distress in Texas Car Accident Cases
Can I claim emotional distress if I wasn’t physically injured?
In rare cases, yes—but it’s harder. Most emotional distress claims are tied to physical injuries or direct involvement in the crash.
Do I need to see a therapist to claim emotional trauma?
It’s highly recommended. A licensed mental health professional’s documentation can make or break this part of your claim.
How much compensation can I get for emotional trauma?
It varies by case. Some cases may include thousands of dollars for trauma; others, much more—especially if PTSD or long-term effects are involved.
Warning: Insurance Companies Downplay Emotional Suffering
Insurers often act like emotional trauma doesn’t count. They’ll say:
- “There’s no medical proof.”
- “Everyone’s shaken up after a crash.”
- “You’re exaggerating.”
That’s why you need someone who won’t let them brush it aside. At Jim Adler & Associates, we make sure your emotional suffering is taken seriously.
If your car crash left more than just bruises—don’t suffer in silence.
Call Jim Adler today for a FREE consultation. We’ll listen to your story, document your trauma, and fight for the justice you deserve.
