Making a psychological injury road traffic accident claim can be overwhelming, particularly where the harm suffered is not immediately visible. In many cases, the most serious and long-lasting consequences of a road traffic accident are psychological rather than physical.
We were instructed by a client who was a front-seat passenger in a head-on road traffic collision caused by another driver travelling on the wrong side of the road. At the time of the accident, she was heavily pregnant and her young child was also in the vehicle. Although her physical injuries were relatively modest, the psychological injury she sustained was severe and life changing.
The Impact of Psychological Injury After a Road Traffic Accident
Following the accident, our client developed significant Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Despite engaging fully with therapy and specialist driving-confidence programmes, she remains unable to drive beyond short, familiar journeys.
This ongoing restriction has had a profound impact on her independence and daily life. It has also affected her career. As a healthcare professional whose role required regular travel between hospitals and patients’ homes, her inability to drive contributed to a prolonged period of absence from work and, ultimately, the loss of her employment. The psychological injury did not just affect her health; it reshaped her future.
How We Supported the Claim
Our client approached us after becoming dissatisfied with her previous representatives. We took over conduct of the psychological injury road traffic accident claim and carried out a detailed review of the existing file, rebuilding the case from the ground up.
We secured an admission of liability and instructed specialist medical and employment experts to assess the full impact of the client’s PTSD. Detailed evidence was obtained from medical providers, employers and relevant authorities, alongside witness evidence addressing how her psychological injury and driving limitations affected her ability to work and live independently.
When early settlement could not be achieved, we issued court proceedings and managed the claim through all procedural stages, including costs budgeting and compliance with court directions. We also represented the client at a Joint Settlement Meeting when it became clear that the defendant’s offers failed to reflect the seriousness of her psychological injuries.
Complex Issues in Psychological Injury Claims
A key issue in this case is whether the road traffic accident caused the client’s ongoing psychological injury and its impact on her life. While the physical injuries were limited, the psychiatric injuries are severe and enduring. Expert opinion differs on the client’s long-term diagnosis, particularly whether she will ever be able to return to unrestricted driving. This has significant implications for her future employment prospects and overall losses.
We have worked closely with specialist counsel throughout to ensure the evidence is strong and the client’s position is presented clearly and persuasively. The matter is now progressing toward trial.
Recognising the Full Impact of Psychological Injury
This case highlights the importance of recognising psychological injury following a road traffic accident and understanding how PTSD can affect every aspect of a person’s life. It also demonstrates the need for detailed evidence, specialist expertise and a willingness to pursue litigation where the true extent of harm is disputed.
Above all, it reflects our commitment to supporting clients through complex and emotionally challenging personal injury claims, ensuring their experiences are fully recognised within the legal process.
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Every personal injury or medical negligence claim is unique, requiring expert guidance, careful preparation, and a sensitive approach.
Our Personal Injury Team works closely with clients to handle each case with care and determination, whether pursuing negotiation or litigation. If you are considering a claim, contact us to discuss your situation confidentially.
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Disclaimer
The contents of this blog or any other published by Talbots Law cannot be considered as legal advice. You should take no action without prior consultation with a qualified solicitor or legal professional. The contents of this blog refers to the process in England and Wales.
This blog was written by Elizabeth Rimell, Director & Head of Personal Injury, in our Dispute Resolution Team.