Getting into a car accident can change how you feel about driving. Even after physical injuries heal, the emotional impact can stick around. Some people feel nervous behind the wheel. Others may avoid driving altogether. This fear is real and common—and it can happen to anyone after a crash.
Let’s take a look at why this fear happens, what it’s called, and what steps you can take to start feeling safe again.
Can You Be Scared to Drive After a Car Accident?
Yes. Many people feel fear or anxiety when they try to drive after being in a crash. This is a natural reaction. Your brain remembers the event and wants to protect you. This can lead to feelings of panic, racing thoughts, and even physical symptoms like sweating or a fast heartbeat when you get into a car.
For some people, this fear fades over time. For others, it sticks around or even gets worse. That’s when it can turn into a more serious issue that needs attention.
What Is Vehophobia?
Vehophobia is the fear of driving. Some people only feel it in certain situations—like driving on highways, through intersections, or at night. Others might feel scared every time they get behind the wheel. In some cases, the fear is so strong that a person avoids driving altogether.
Vehophobia often develops after a crash, but it can also be linked to other causes like witnessing a bad accident or hearing about one.
Other Driving-Related Fears
In addition to vehophobia, there are a few other terms used to describe fears related to car travel:
- Amaxophobia: The fear of being in a vehicle, either as a driver or a passenger.
- Dystychiphobia: The fear of getting into an accident or being injured, even if nothing has happened yet.
These fears can show up in different ways. You might feel tense in the car, constantly check your mirrors, avoid driving on certain roads, or refuse to get into a car at all. You might also have flashbacks, trouble sleeping, or bad dreams about the accident.
Why Does This Fear Happen?
After a traumatic experience like a car crash, your brain can go into “protection mode.” It remembers what happened and tries to stop it from happening again. This is how fear is created.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one reason someone may fear driving after a crash. PTSD can cause flashbacks, nightmares, trouble concentrating, and sudden panic when reminded of the event. While PTSD is often linked with veterans or other trauma survivors, it can happen to anyone after a frightening event—including car accidents.
Even if you don’t have full PTSD, you can still develop strong fears and anxiety. This doesn’t mean something is wrong with you. It means your mind and body are reacting to a stressful experience.
Self-Compassion Helps You Heal
If you’re afraid to drive again, it’s easy to feel frustrated or embarrassed. But beating yourself up doesn’t help.
Be kind to yourself. Your fear is not something to be ashamed of. Many people go through the same thing. Recovery takes time and patience. There’s no deadline for feeling “back to normal.”
Some people recover on their own. Others may need help from a therapist or counselor. That’s okay. Talking to someone can help you process your feelings, learn new coping skills, and slowly face your fears in a safe way.
How Mental Health Treatment Can Help
There are several types of therapy that can help with driving fears:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you understand how your thoughts affect your feelings and actions.
- Exposure Therapy: Helps you slowly and safely face what scares you, like getting back into a car.
- Relaxation Techniques: Deep breathing, muscle relaxation, and mindfulness can help calm your body when anxiety hits.
If therapy isn’t available right away, start small. Take short drives in familiar places. Ask a trusted friend or family member to come with you. Build up your comfort level over time. Keep track of your progress and celebrate small wins.
Tips for Driving Again After a Crash
Here are some simple steps that may help you rebuild confidence:
- Start with sitting in a parked car.
- Take short drives around your neighborhood.
- Avoid busy roads at first.
- Drive during daylight hours.
- Listen to calm music or a podcast.
- Bring someone with you for support.
- Take breaks if you feel overwhelmed.
You don’t have to rush the process. Go at your own pace. If the fear gets too strong, take a break or talk to someone you trust.
Legal Help After a Car Accident
Sometimes, fear of driving is made worse by the stress of the accident itself—especially if someone else was at fault. Worrying about bills, car repairs, lost wages, and insurance claims can add more anxiety to an already stressful situation.
If someone else caused your crash, you may be able to get compensation for your physical and emotional injuries. That includes therapy costs, lost income, and pain and suffering. Getting legal help can take some of the pressure off and give you more space to focus on your recovery.
A personal injury attorney can guide you through the claims process, explain your rights, and fight for what you deserve.
Talk to Someone Who Understands
Fear of driving after a car accident is more common than people think. You’re not alone—and there is a path forward. Whether your fear is mild or severe, it’s okay to ask for help.
If your accident was caused by another driver, legal support may be an important part of your healing. You don’t have to go through it alone.
Call (702) 970-4222 to talk with someone from Friedman Injury Law. Let’s see how we can support your recovery and help you move forward.
