Can You File a Claim for Psychological Trauma After a Car Accident?

 Posted on February 27, 2026 in Car Accidents

You can file a claim for psychological trauma after a car accident in Illinois if the crash caused emotional harm. Mental injuries can be just as serious as physical ones. Many people experience debilitating anxiety, fear, depression, or post-traumatic stress after a collision. Many car accident survivors develop symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder after serious crashes. This emotional impact can affect your sleep, work, relationships, and daily life.

If you are struggling emotionally after a crash in 2026, you may have the right to seek compensation. Our Chicago car accident lawyers help injured people recover compensation for both physical and psychological injuries so they can focus on healing.

What Is Psychological Trauma After a Car Accident?

Psychological trauma refers to emotional and mental harm caused by a frightening or stressful event. Car accidents can leave lasting emotional effects, especially if the crash was severe or life-threatening.

Common symptoms of psychological trauma include:

• Anxiety or panic attacks
• Nightmares or trouble sleeping
• Fear of driving or riding in vehicles
• Depression or mood changes

These symptoms can appear immediately or develop weeks after the accident. Emotional injuries are real medical conditions that may require treatment.

Can You Recover Compensation for Emotional Distress After a Car Accident in Illinois?

Yes, Illinois law allows accident victims to recover compensation for emotional distress. Under Illinois personal injury law, victims can seek damages when another person’s negligence causes them harm.

Compensation may include payment for emotional distress, mental suffering, and reduced quality of life. These damages are often included as part of a personal injury claim. To recover compensation, you must show that the accident caused your psychological injury.

Do You Need a Physical Injury To File a Psychological Trauma Claim?

In many cases, psychological trauma claims are stronger when they are connected to a physical injury. However, emotional harm should still be taken seriously even if physical injuries are minor.

Courts and insurance companies often look for medical evidence showing that your symptoms are real and related to the accident. Seeking treatment from a licensed mental health professional can help document your condition and support your claim.

What Other Compensation Can You Recover After a Car Accident in Illinois?

In addition to non-economic damages, Illinois law allows you to recover economic damages for the financial losses caused by the accident. These damages are based on measurable costs and are meant to help you recover financially.

You may be able to recover compensation for:

• Hospital bills, emergency care, and follow-up medical treatment
• Future medical care, including physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Lost income from missing work during recovery
• Loss of future earning capacity if you cannot return to the same type of work
• Prescription medication costs
• Medical equipment, such as braces, crutches, or mobility aids
• Costs to repair or replace your vehicle
• Transportation expenses related to your medical treatment

How Long Do You Have To File a Car Accident Claim in Illinois?

Illinois has a deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits. According to 735 ILCS 5/13-202, you typically have two years from the date of the crash to start your case in court.

Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation, even if your injuries were serious. Taking action sooner also helps ensure that important evidence is preserved while it is still available.

Why Is It Important To Speak With a Car Accident Lawyer?

Psychological trauma claims can be challenging because emotional injuries are not always visible and easy to prove. Insurance companies may question the seriousness of your condition.

A lawyer can help gather medical records, work with mental health professionals, and present strong evidence. Legal support can help ensure your injuries are taken seriously.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Chicago, IL Car Accident Attorneys

At Winters Salzetta O'Brien & Richardson, LLC, our Chicago car accident lawyers understand how serious psychological injuries can be. Our legal team brings together professionals with different backgrounds who work collaboratively to review medical records, identify important details, and evaluate your case from multiple perspectives. This thorough approach helps ensure that every part of your claim is carefully examined.

If you are suffering from emotional trauma after a car accident, contact us by calling 312-236-6324 to schedule your free consultation. Our Chicago car accident lawyers are ready to help you understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.