Road accidents

According to the Observatoire National Interministériel de la Sécurité Routière (ONISR), nearly 235,000 people were injured in road accidents in France in 2023including some 16,000 victims with serious injuries. 3,398 people died on the roads of mainland France in 2023.

In addition to physical injuries, some victims of road accidents can develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) weeks or even months after the accident.

Road accidents are among the potentially traumatic events that can trigger psychotrauma. The sudden, often violent and life-threatening nature of a road accident can lead to disabling and potentially long-lasting symptoms. According to most studies of car accident survivors, between 20% and 40% of victims of serious accidents suffer from PTSD.

Read the full file in pdf

What is PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder, sometimes referred to by its abbreviation PTSD, is a disorder that occurs following a traumatic event in which one is or feels confronted with death (an armed conflict, an attack, a car accident, etc.) or one's physical integrity is attacked (a physical and/or sexual assault, rape, etc.).

It's a reaction to intense stress, usually occurring within a month of the event, but can also manifest itself months or even years after the trauma. It affects more women than men, and children too.

The diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder is quite complex and can only be made by a medical professional. If in doubt, consult your GP, who will refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist. In all cases, there are ways of getting better.

> Learn more about PTSD

Recognizing the symptoms of PTSD

There are four main types of symptoms that must persist for at least a month and cause discomfort:

- Avoidance: when we avoid going down a particular street, doing a particular activity, etc. In short, we avoid anything that might remind us of the traumatic event. In short, we avoid anything that might remind us of the traumatic event.

- Reliving: in spite of ourselves, we will "relive" the traumatic event and the emotions we felt at the time. These are particularly violent moments that can paralyze the person experiencing them. They can take the form of flashbacks, nightmares...

- Hypervigilance: you'll jump at the slightest noise, be on the alert all the time, turn around all the time in the street to see if anyone's following you, and so on.

- Negative emotions or ideas about oneself: one will feel anger, fear, guilt or shame in connection with the event. It can also be an inability to remember important elements of one's life from the traumatic event(s) (typically due to dissociative amnesia and not to other factors such as head trauma, alcohol or drug use).

Risk factors for PTSD

Not everyone develops PTSD after a traumatic event, but there are factors that increase the risk. These factors include:

- The severity of the event ;

- The person's proximity to the event;

- Lack of social support;

- Past trauma history;

- A history of other mental disorders.

It's important to understand that PTSD is not a weakness. PTSD is a psychological disorder that can occur in anyone who has been exposed to extraordinary and threatening events. In the next chapters, we'll look at how to identify, manage and overcome PTSD, whether after a natural disaster or any other traumatic experience.

Road accidents: a few benchmarks

we will refer indifferently to road accidentsa term that is not necessarily the most commonly used in everyday life, but which allows us to include different types of accident with similar psychological consequences, and road accidentsfor the sake of simplicity.

Public road accidents (PRAs) thus include all traffic events involving motorized or non-motorized vehicles. motorized or non-motorized vehicles vehicles (cars, trucks, motorcycles, bicycles, electric scooters, etc.), resulting in damage and/or personal injury.

They occur in a variety of different contextsfrom urban areas to country roads, and involve different types of users, whether drivers, passengers or pedestrians.

road accidents scaled e1734097289635 - Cn2r

Key figures

3398

people died on France's roads in 2023, including 3,167 people in mainland France, down 3.1% on 2022. Most deaths will occur outside urban areas (59%). Source

77%

of fatally injured victims are men. Men are far more likely to be involved in serious accidents, and also account for 75% of those seriously injured. Source

30%

of survivors show symptoms of psychotrauma. Nearly one in three car accident survivors show symptoms of PTSD one month after the accident. This figure decreases as time goes by, with a prevalence of around 14% one year after the event.. Source

50 000

traumatized by road accidents every year. This was the estimate made in 2018, based on an initial analysis carried out in 2008. This estimate does not take into account the number of front-line responders (firefighters, EMS, police, etc.) likely to develop PTSD as well, which is estimated at around 10%. Source and source

Prevention, a major challenge

Although the number of road accident-related deaths in France has fallen considerably in recent decades, from almost 12,384 in 1980to 3,398 deaths in 2023, preventing road accidents remains a priority, not only to save lives, but also to limit the number of psychotraumatic injuries suffered by direct victims and their families.

Associations dedicated to preventing road violence play an essential role in raising public awareness of the risks of the road and lobbying for stricter laws, such as speed limits or a strict ban on the use of cell phones while driving.

Several laws passed in France have significantly reduced the number of road accidents:

Mandatory seat belts (1973) ;

Freeway speed limit of 130 km/h (1974);

Lowering the maximum permitted blood alcohol level to 0.5 g/L (1995).

These measures have also been accompanied by hard-hitting awareness-raising campaigns, notably those run by the French road safety organization, Sécurité Routière.

Beyond the death toll

The number of deaths and serious injuries is often used to understand the impact of road accidents and how they evolve over time. But we must not forget that road accidents do not only concern not only direct victims.

It is estimated that each death leaves behind an average of4 to 6 mourners- loved ones who may also suffer from psychotraumatic disorders due to the sudden and violent loss of a loved one.

For these families, mourning is often complicated by by the unpredictable and sudden nature of the accident. That's why it's important to seek support, whether through victims' associations, or from professionals trained in psychotrauma (see below > "Seeking help").

The impact of accidents on my mental health

After a road accident, it is quite normal to experience acute acute stress reactionssuch as having nightmares, being afraid to leave the house or having "flashes" of the accident, especially in the first few weeks.

After experiencing a car accident, it's common to be afraid to get back behind the wheel, to be in a car, or even to walk on a sidewalk. These reactions are natural and part of our process of getting better and "digesting" the event. "digest" the event.

For a long time I had nightmares and flashbacks. Today I still use the car because I have no choice, but it's a source of stress.- Clara, 19, see her full testimony on the France Victimes website

Acute stress and post-traumatic stress

So how do you know if you're suffering from transient acute stressor post-traumatic stress disorder? The difference between acute stress and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) lies in time: if these symptoms persist after a month and affect our daily livesthen it could be PTSD.

Immediate care

After an accident, what happens in the first few hours and days can make a big difference in the prevention and long-term development of potential post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

At the scene of the accident, the rescue teams are there to reassure us and make sure we're out of danger. This sense of security is important in reducing our stress levels. Even simple gestures, such as talking calmly or explaining what's happening, can help us feel less overwhelmed. Adapted physical activity or self-soothing techniques such as breathing exercises and meditation, have shown benefits in managing immediate stress.

In the days that follow, it's normal to experience acute stress reactions (see "Acute stress and post-traumatic stress" above). But if we feel that these sensations are getting worse, or that we're feeling cut off from reality (as if we're detached from our surroundings), it may be useful to talk to a professional as soon as possible. Identifying these signs early can help prevent stress from taking a long-term hold.

Certain therapies can reduce the risk of developing PTSD. Even if acute stress reactions are common, don't hesitate to seek specialized help.

Protecting my mental health after the accident

After a road accident, there are a number of things that can help to mental health and reduce the risk of developing psychological disorders such as PTSD. These factors, which are often interconnected, act to create an environment conducive to recovery and strengthen our resilience.

A support network network of family family, friends or colleaguesplays an essential role. Feeling surrounded and understood can reduce feelings of loneliness and promote recovery from acute stress disorder or PTSD. Research shows that people with strong social support are less likely to develop psychotraumatic disorders after an accident. So if I'm lonely, I don't hesitate to get in touch with victims' associations!
The ability to adapt to stress, identify positive goals and maintain a hopeful outlook are key elements. These skills can be reinforced by therapeutic interventions.
From lifestyle habits such as good sleep hygiene, regular physical activity and a balanced diet help maintain emotional balance. For example, sport can release endorphins, natural hormones that reduce stress and improve mood.

See > 10 techniques to help yourself after a trauma

For victims involved in compensation procedures or litigation, legal or administrative support is available. legal or administrative support can reduce the stress associated with these procedures. Feeling supported and guided in these complex matters can help them to make a better recovery.

Comorbidities: when PTSD doesn't come alone

After a car accident, I may develop other mental or physical health problems in addition to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Thesecomorbiditiesare common and can make my recovery all the more difficult, as they amplify my symptoms and complicate their treatment.

Depression Depression is very common among PTSD sufferers. Approximatelyone out of every two people suffering from PTSD also suffer from depression, which requires specific psychological support to overcome both disorders together.

Anxiety and fears linked to the accident: after an accident, many victims also develop phobias, such as the fear of driving or being a passenger in a car (see above > "Amaxophobia, what's it all about?").

Chronic pain and its links to PTSD Chronic pain: ifI've suffered physical injuries, chronic pain can persist long after the first few months. This pain, combined with PTSD, could create a vicious circle: the pain reminds me of the accident, and my stress amplifies my perception of the pain. This could make it more difficult for me to take part in therapies or physical activities that are so beneficial to my recovery.

Eddy MassonGeneral Secretary of Victimes & Citoyens

The psychological pain is that you think about it. It's true that I often think about the accident. I also have phantom pains almost every night, which can last a few seconds, a few minutes or all night long. It's very hard to deal with. 

Using substances to relieve symptoms In order toalleviate flashbacks or hypervigilance, I may be tempted to use alcohol or medication excessively. This may help temporarily, but it increases the risk of dependence and complicates my recovery.

Specificrisk factors specific to road accidents

Certain accidents are more likely to result in psychotrauma. Several factors increase this risk and explain why we are more or less vulnerable.

These risk factors include :

The severity of the accident

The more serious the accident, the greater the risk of developing psychotrauma. The serious injuriessuch as head injuries, neck injuries or spinal cord injuries, are particularly associated with post-traumatic stress disorder.

Role in the accident

As drivers, especially whenwe are responsible for an accident, we can feel feel a great deal of guilt. This guilt increases the risk of psychological disorders. Thepedestrians and cyclistsare also particularly vulnerable to psychological consequences, due to their more exposed position at the time of the accident.

When you are responsible for the accident :

After causing a fatal accident, even an unintentional one, I can feel a strong sense of guilt. Although I'm legally responsible for what happened, that doesn't change the fact that I was also a direct witness to the accident, and therefore susceptible to post-traumatic stress disorder. What I saw and experienced that day comes back to me in a loop, in the form of flashbacks or nightmares, I don't dare drive anymore and I jump at the slightest noise... But there are solutions to help me get better.

In his book Un jour, sur la route, j'ai tué un hommeBertrand Parent recounts the psychological consequences of a fatal accident for which he was unintentionally responsible. With great sensitivity, this account explores the feelings of guilt, shame and self-questioning that accompany such a tragedy.

Perception of danger

When we perceive a real danger to our lives during an accident, the risk of developing PTSD afterwards is increased. This sense of threat is one of the key factors in the development of the disorder.

Why is dissociation important?

Dissociation is a phenomenon during which you feel disconnected from yourself or from reality, for example by having the impression of experiencing the accident from the outside, as if you were observing the scene from afar. This symptom can occur after a road accident and, according to some studies, may indicate a higher risk of developing severe post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) later on.

People who experience significant dissociation immediately after the accident are more likely to suffer severe PTSD symptoms in the long term. While dissociation may be a temporary reaction to protect oneself from the horror of the event, it can also make it more difficult to manage and "digest" the trauma..

That's why it's essential to spot this symptom at the first sign and seek help quickly to prevent more serious consequences.

> Find out more about dissociation and disorientation

Lack of social support

Other risk factors, less specific to road accidents, should also be taken into account, such as lack of social support - which can be reinforced, for example, by losing one's job as a result of the accident.

I've gone back to work part-time and I'm making progress towards 60%: I'm getting better. I'm on medication to help me sleep, but the nightmares have stopped. Getting back into a social life is helping me to rebuild my life and move forward.- Barbara, 47, see her full story on the France Victimes website

I lost a loved one in the accident

After losing a loved one in a car accident, my pain can be compounded by symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This combination of grief and psychotrauma creates a complex suffering in which every emotion seems to be amplified.

Reliving the accident through flashbacks or nightmares, feeling intense guilt or being constantly on guard can prevent my grieving process from progressing. I can feel trapped by my emotions, with a sense of being stuck in the past, unable to cope with the absence of my loved one.

It's important not to be alone in this situation. To help me move forward and feel better, I can consult a health professional trained in psychotrauma, draw on appropriate resources (e.g. via victims' associations) or take part in support groups to talk to people who have been through a similar situation.

Find out more > our mourning file

The impact of accident-related PTSD on daily life

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) linked to road accidents can profoundly affect our daily activities, particularly in the professional and social spheres.

At work, PTSD can impair our ability to maintain or resume an activity. Symptoms such as impaired concentration, irritability or hypervigilance often complicate tasks requiring sustained attention or frequent interaction with colleagues. We may also find it difficult to use transport to get to work, leading to prolonged absences or even the need to change jobs.

When the accident happens on the way to work

If the accident occurs on the way to or from work, it can be recognized as acommuting accidentIf the accident occurs on the way to or from work, it can be recognized as a commuting accident, which entitles the employee to 100% reimbursement of medical expenses and special protection against dismissal while off work. However, recognizing PTSD as an injury remains a challenge.

The best thing is to consult a doctor as soon as possible and obtain an initialinitial medical certificatewhich establishes the link between the accident and my psychological state. This document is essential to guarantee subsequent compensation, as insurers tend to undervalue or contest this type of injury, which is often considered "invisible".. Likewise, if the doctor decides to take me off work, it must be in accordance with the procedure for work-related accidents.

Social relationships, meanwhile, are often affected by avoidance and anxiety. For example, we may be reluctant to participate in activities or events in environments reminiscent of the accident. This tendency towards isolation can aggravate depressive symptoms and limit the emotional support of loved ones, which is essential to recovery..

PTSD and compensation procedures

Recognition of PTSD plays plays a key role in calculating theAIPP rate (Atteinte à l'Intégrité Physique et Psychiquesometimes referred to by the acronyms IPP or DFP), a key factor in assessing compensation. A detailed medical certificate and a substantiated medical assessment are essential for insurers to recognize this loss and obtain fair compensation.

Eddy MassonGeneral Secretary of Victimes & Citoyens

"When you have an accident from one day to the next, you don't know who to count on. At the association level, we help people a lot because the shock happens in a matter of seconds, but afterwards we're swamped by all the paperwork, lawyers, insurance, etc. It's a real struggle. It's a real struggle.

Recognition as a disabled worker (RQTH)

PTSD can lead to significant and lasting limitations in daily and professional life. In this case, it is possible to apply for aRecognition of Disabled Worker Status (RQTH)from the Commission des Droits et de l'Autonomie des Personnes Handicapées (CDAPH), via the Maison Départementale des Personnes Handicapées (MDPH)..

This status offers several advantages: drearrangement of workstation or working hours ; ubetter protection against disability-related discrimination; ueasier access to training and professional reintegration schemes.

To apply for RQTH status, you need to fill out an application form with the MDPH, accompanied by medical evidence attesting to the limitations associated with PTSD. This status can also facilitate recognition of other rights, such as the disabled adults' allowance (AAH).

Disabled adult allowance (AAH)

If PTSD results in a significant disability that prevents or severely limits the ability to work, it is possible to receive theAAH. This allowance, granted by the MDPH, is conditional on a permanent disability rate of at least 50%:

If the rate is between 50% and 79%, substantial and lasting restrictions on access to employment must be proven.

If the rate exceeds 80%, disability is automatically recognized.

The AAH is designed to guarantee a minimum income when professional income is insufficient or non-existent.

Compensation from the Victims' Guarantee Fund (FGTI)

In cases where the person responsible for the accident is unidentified, insolvent or uninsured, theFonds de garantie des victimes des actes de terrorisme et d'autres infractions (FGTI)may intervene to compensate the damages suffered. This compensation coversmedical expenseshe loss of income linked to the inability to workand psychological damage, including PTSD.

To apply to the FGTI, you will need to provide a detailed medical certificate, proof of expenses incurred and an estimate of the impact on daily life. Legal assistance can be useful in building a solid case and defending your rights.

Steps to take to maximize your rights

To limit the impact of PTSD and access available rights, it is essential to :

Seek prompt medical attentionto obtain an initial medical certificate describing the symptoms;

Initiate appropriate therapeutic follow-upwith a psychiatrist or clinical psychologist trained in psychotrauma;

Prepare medical appraisalsby collaborating with specialized associations or legal advisors. The latter can help prevent insurers from minimizing the damage or attributing symptoms to pre-existing causes.

Acting as someone close to an affected person

It can be difficult to recognize the signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a loved one after a car accident. Yet these signs are important to spot to encourage prompt treatment. After a traumatic event such as an accident, it's normal for symptoms of acute stress symptoms.

However, if these symptoms persist for more than a month and significantly affect daily lifethey may indicate PTSD. Only a health professional can make a diagnosis, but we all have a role to play in spotting the disorder (see above > Recognizing PTSD symptoms).

I recognize the signs and listen without judgment

I let my loved one express his emotions and fears without belittling what he's feeling. I can reassure them by saying:"What you're feeling is normal after such an event.. "The key is not to minimize their emotions, and to avoid advice such as: "Try not to think about it. Try not to think about it.. "

I make sure he or she is safe and offer information and resources

I create a safe environmentand make sure that our meeting places are places where he feels protected (e.g. not on the street if he feels uncomfortable around cars). Establishing simple routines can also help him regain some control (for example, calling each other at the same time every day);

I offer information and resources adapted to their needs. For example, I can provide information on the (many) associations for road accident victims, victim assistance associations, etc. I inform him of his rights, the legal steps he can take, and the places where he can get help, etc. I share reliable websites where he can find information and testimonials.

I encourage her to seek care and watch for signs of suicidal crisis.

I encourage her to seek care, to a mental health professional trained in psychotrauma trained in psychotrauma, and offer to accompany him to his appointments if this helps him feel less alone and more supported. I can also find out about the various therapies recommended, such as CBT or EMDR, so that I can pass on the information and help him find a treatment that's right for him (see "Treatment centers" below). On a day-to-day basis, I can also suggest self-care activities such as meditation, yoga, cardiac coherence exercises and so on.

I watch for signs of suicidal crisis. The PTSD is strongly associated with an increased risk of suicidal behavior. In the event of a crisis, Ihesitate don't hesitate à call emergency services (15) or à seek professional help immediately (3114).

Who to ask for help?

In addition to seeking professional help, there are techniques I can use to help myself à cope with PTSD. It's not about " cure "nor is it a substitute for treatment or therapybut a few tips for everyday life: 10 techniques to help yourself after trauma

Specialized care centers

A number of specialized care centers can help victims of road accidents, particularly in terms of psychotraumatic repercussions. Here, we'll be talking about facilities for adult victims (for children and teenagers, see below).

Regional Psychotrauma Centers (CRP) are available in every region to care for people affected by psychotrauma. Some centers specialize in treating adults and/or children. To find the CRP nearest me, consult this map. Please note that it may take some time to get an appointment.

Centers Médico-Psychologiques (CMP) provide free psychiatric and psychological consultations. They offer outpatient care and can refer patients to specialized services if necessary. They exist all over France (to find the one nearest you, type CMP + the name of the nearest large town into any search engine).

Psychologists and psychiatrists working in private practice, i.e. outside hospital structures, specialize in the treatment of psychotrauma. These consultations are not reimbursed, except under special arrangements.

Which therapy works best? CBT, EMDR... There are several therapies recommended for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder. To help me decide which therapy to turn to, I can consult this page.

Directory of associations

Associations play a major role in supporting victims of road accidents, and can offer various forms of support: legal advice, psychological support, discussion groups, etc. In addition to those already mentioned in this dossier, here are a few - the list is not exhaustive. If you would like to list your association, please contact us atredaction@cn2r.fr

France Victimes : Assistance and support for victims of all kinds of violence, including sexual violence, with a network of 130 local associations offering legal, psychological and social assistance. Call number: 116 006

Victims and citizens : Legal and administrative assistance, defense of victims' rights, prevention of road accidents on a national and international scale.

Victims in solidarity : Information for victims on their rights to compensation, legal support from lawyers and medical advisors. Open 7 days a week.

Association d'Aide aux Victimes de France (AVF) : Specialized legal information, emotional and psychological support, network of committed experts (lawyers and medical advisors).

Federation Fédération nationale des victimes de la route : Association providing assistance to victims of road accidents: help in compiling medical files, assistance with expert medical reports, calculation of compensation, etc.

> More associations on the road safety website.

How can I help a child or teenager?

By 2023, more than 37,000 children and teenagers aged 0 to 17 were involved in road accidents in France. They represent more than one victim in 10! Yetroad accidents can affect children and teenagers in a similar way to adultsand cause post-traumatic stress disorder.. Contrary to what was believed for a while, children are not immune to trauma because their young age! It is estimated that between 5% and 20% of children and adolescents who have been involved in a road accident will develop post-traumatic stress disorder..

However, their reactions may differ depending on their age and the support and the support they receive. That's why it's important to to be alert to the signs of PTSDespecially when children are unable to verbalize their suffering, and to know how to provide appropriate support.

Warning signs

0-6 years

Intrusive thoughts that occur when the child is calm;

Invasive negative emotions (fear, anger, sadness, etc.) ;

Distress reactions when something or someone reminds you of the event (panic, shock, agitation, etc.);

Sleep disorders (nightmares, sleepwalking, night terrors, restless sleep);

Joyless games or drawings, linked or not to the traumatic event and often repetitive;

Appearances of fears or anxietý often unrelated to the event (black, monsters) ;

Regression and return to outdated stages of development (separation anxietý, taking back the comforter, bedwetting, etc.) ;

Tantrums, crying.

> To find out more about warning signs in 6-12 year-olds and teenagers, see our complete fact sheet on PTSD in children and teenagers.

Professor Philippe Birmespsychiatrist at the Toulouse University Hospital

The impact, even if you weren't a witness or co-victim of your child's accident, is not to be overlooked. According to a study carried out in 2022, 13.5% of mothers of children who had been involved in a road traffic accident had probable post-traumatic stress disorder five weeks after the accident.

How to help my child (0 - 5 years)

I create routines : lestable routines provide a sense of security, essential for reducing stress and PTSD symptoms. Reassuring gestures, such as a cuddle before bedtime or comforting stories, create soothing moments that help reduce the effects of trauma.

I play with my child : leplay is an effective way for young children to release their emotions. Role-playing with dolls or figurines enables the child to express difficult feelings and experiences indirectly. Creative activities such as drawing or painting also help children to express their feelings non-verbally.

I encourage physical contact : le gentle, comforting physical contact (e.g. a cuddle) releases soothing hormones and reduces stress. Simply carrying my child in my arms strengthens the emotional bond.

How to help my child (ages 6 - 12)

I bet on creative hobbies : jencourage my child to express himself through art (drawing, painting, writing, dancing...). Artistic expression is a way of giving shape to emotions that are difficult to verbalize. It helps children better understand and cope with painful experiences. Diaries can also be a useful tool for expressing feelings.

I encourage open discussion : jtry to create an environment where children feel safe to talk about their feelings and experiences. I encourage them to ask questions and express their feelings without judgment. In return, I offer age-appropriate, honest and reassuring answers.

I offer soothing activities : lsport or artistic activities release endorphins that act as natural antidepressants. Taking part in sports, dance classes or handicrafts can help release accumulated stress and promote emotional well-being. Meditation and yoga are also beneficial for some children.

How to help my child (ages 13 - 18)

I'm not afraid to talk about it : çt's not always easy, but expressing their experiences openly can help teens understand and process their emotions. Open dialogue creates a safe space for sharing thoughts and concerns.

I look to the future : aeeing future goals gives meaning to the experience: sports competition, studies... This can help teenagers focus on building a positive future rather than remaining focused on the painful past.

I make sure he's surrounded : jfacilitate my teen's participation in peer support groups. Teens can find comfort and advice from those who share similar experiences. Participation in social activities, clubs or support groups can be extremely beneficial to their recovery.

Who to ask for help?

In addition to the structures listed at the beginning of this file, assistance may be offered:

In the Centres médico-psychopédagogiques (CMPP) all over France; to find them, type "CMPP" into any search engine. These centers offer specific support for children and adolescents;

In the CMP are facilities offering free psychiatric and psychological consultations. They offer outpatient care and can refer to specialized services if necessary. There are CMPs all over France (to find the one nearest you, type CMP + the name of your nearest town into any search engine).

In the teenagers' homeswhich are specially designed to help teenagers and young adults;

By the PMI (Protection maternelle et infantile), for pregnant women and young children.

To find out more > the replay of our webinar "Post-traumatic stress disorder and road accidents: the impact on child victims and their parents, and support strategies", presented by Pr Philippe Birmes, Professor of Psychiatry at Toulouse University Hospital and Toulouse III University.

Professionals on the front line, bénévoles: how can we help?

Professionals who regularly interact with victims of road accidents, whether as healthcare professionals in rehabilitation care, educators, volunteers in associations, or at school with children who have experienced an accident, are on the front line in screening for post-traumatic stress disorder.

In your day-to-day interactions with these people, you often witness the concrete difficulties they face, including the psychological after-effects of the accident in question.

Your role in screening for PTSD of PTSD is essential in directing victims to the appropriate resources.

Signs to look out for

Flashbacks;
Recurring nightmares;
Hypervigilance;
Excessive startle reactions;
Intense emotional distress ;
Difficulty concentrating;
Sleep disorders;
Avoidance behaviors;
Sudden changes in behavior or mood.

Advice and guidance

It's not always easy to know what to do when someone in distress shows signs of PTSD. In addition to referring the sufferer to a health professional, we can provide support on a day-to-day basis:

When providing advice and guidance to men, women and children who are victims of road accidents, give them clear information about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a language and form they can understand. Use appropriate information sheets, translated if necessary, to help victims better understand what is happening to them.

Videos are often a good medium for psycho-education. Here are three videos that explain post-traumatic stress disorder in a simple way:

For adults : The invisible wounds

For teens : Bloqué.e

For children: Talking to children about psychotrauma: Too scared

Assure them that seeing a psychologist or mental health professional doesn't mean they're "crazy". Emphasize that they won't be forced to tell their whole story again, and that there are ways to feel better.

Creating a reassuring and stable environment is essential to helping accident victims feel safe. Make sure you maintain a lasting bond with the people you counsel and guide. Social support plays an important role in the healing process of PTSD, so maintaining an ongoing, empathetic relationship can be an important protective factor for their mental well-being.

Listen to the person you're supporting and their needs, without doing things for them or forcing them to do things at a time when they don't feel ready. Let them go at their own pace: it's not necessarily the right time for them to file a complaint, start therapy or start driving again.

Protecting yourself

Your involvement with victims of road accidents can have a significant impact on your own mental well-being. Repeated exposure to traumatic stories increases the risk of developing vicarious post-traumatic stress disorder (vicarious PTSD).

Vicarious PTSD?

Vicarious post-traumatic stress disorder (vicarious PTSD) is a form of traumatic stress that affects individuals who are repeatedly exposed to the traumatic stories or experiences of others, often as part of their work or professional commitment. Unlike classic PTSD, where the individual is directly exposed to a traumatic event, vicarious PTSD develops in those who hear or witness the traumas experienced by others.

To find out more, visit :

Our scientific dossier on vicarious PTSD
Our practical information sheets on the risk of psychotrauma among justice professionals and journalists journalists.

Certain signs may alert you to the state of your mental health and the possibility that you are developing vicarious PTSD. For example:

If you find it hard to let go of your work when you get home ;

If you feel constantly preoccupied by a person you are accompanying ;
If you feel disproportionately angry or irritable;
If you feel overwhelmed by your emotions and can't keep a distance.

Other signals may include disturbances in your sleep, increased or excessive alertness, or changes in your eating habits or social behavior. If you notice these persistent signs, don't hesitate to talk to a healthcare professional, such as your GP. They can help you find strategies to manage your stress and anxiety, and direct you to additional resources if necessary. Getting help at an early stage can help prevent symptoms from worsening.

Cultural recommendation

Un episode of the podcast Down to Earth "Road accidents: those who remain" France Culture