AUTHOR: Mayou RA
JOURNAL: Psychiatry in the Medically Ill 2002; 25: 27-41.

ABSTRACT: "Psychiatric complaints are frequent following motor vehicle accidents and may be major predictors of persistent pain and other complaints. Outcomes are not related closely to the nature or severity of any medical injury. Psychiatric problems often are unrecognized and untreated. There is a need for more behaviorally inferred routine care, early recognition of complications, and the use of psychological and pharmacological interventions."

SUMMARY/TAKE HOME MESSAGE: Motor vehicle accidents are relatively common and frequently have serious mental health consequences including driving-related phobia.