Getting into a car accident can create a long-term effect on the human body -physically and mentally. The physical injuries are often visible right after the crash, but the mental effects of an accident usually follow later. Many car accident victims develop driving anxiety after an accident without realizing the consequences that it will bring.
On a bright note, you can get compensation for emotional pain and sufferings from a car accident. Although it is complex to calculate emotional pain and anguish in monetary terms, Fort Wayne car accident lawyers can be your best assistance to help you get financial compensation for your emotional distress.
How does driving anxiety affect the victim?
Victims often cannot even figure out if they have developed driving anxiety following a car crash. It is normal to feel scared when you get behind the wheel after your accident and get back to your daily driving routine. However, things are different for those who develop driving anxiety.
Usually, the victim may feel extremely panicked whenever they try to drive. Or, the victim may even get anxious at the thought of driving. Various people experience anxiety attacks because of constantly thinking about driving, remembering the crash, or even the idea of sitting inside the car and taking control of the vehicle.
Similarly, the victim may experience their hands shivering, shortness of breath, sweating, numbness, chills, and other symptoms. If you or someone you love is going through driving anxiety, it is advisable to get professional help.
How to overcome driving anxiety?
Driving anxiety or anxiety, in general, is not curable overnight. Similar to physical health recovery, recovering mentally after a car crash for a victim takes time. Even if you are physically fit, driving anxiety can drain you and makes thing difficult in the long run. Therefore, if you are battling driving anxiety, know that it is okay and may not be permanent.
Here are a few tips that might help you:
- Do not be too harsh on yourself for developing driving anxiety.
- Understand your triggers. Is it a specific area that brings anxiety, or is it the memory of the collision or any other factor that may contribute?
- Before going for a long drive, try driving around your locality.
- Take one step at a time and be calm.
- Try aromatherapy for your car to create a calming environment.
While multiple ways can work for you, it would be in your best interest to talk to a professional therapist or counselor who can give you the best advice that works to overcome your fears. A therapist can understand the potential factors of the fear, where your anxiety is coming from, and provide you with practical solutions.
