Allianz Introduces VR Therapy to Address Driving Phobias

Allianz has partnered with the Sydney Phobia Clinic to introduce a Virtual Reality (VR) therapy program aimed at helping individuals overcome psychological injuries following car accidents. This initiative marks the first use of VR technology by a general insurer in Australia to address driving-related fears.

The program, which has already supported over 100 participants, is now being expanded across New South Wales and made available as a self-guided option through the oVRcome platform.

Rising Psychological Impacts of Car Accidents

Allianz’s Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance data shows a significant increase in claims involving psychological injuries. In 2024, 38 per cent of claims involved some form of psychological trauma after a motor accident, up from 24 per cent in 2020.

The most reported conditions include anxiety and depression (41 per cent), acute stress (23 per cent), post-traumatic stress disorder (22 per cent) and nervous shock (7 per cent).

Thea Hobbins, General Manager Strategic Delivery and Innovation at Allianz, emphasised the importance of addressing these challenges.

“When someone has a car accident, the physical injuries are more obvious straight away. But sometimes the real obstacle isn’t physical, it’s mental. Our new program is about offering support to our customers to overcome the biggest barrier of all – mental health,” Hobbins said.

VR Therapy: A New Approach

The VR therapy program immerses participants in realistic driving scenarios, helping them gradually regain confidence in a controlled environment.

Dr Corrie Ackland, Principal Psychologist at the Sydney Phobia Clinic, explained how the therapy works.

“The innovative therapy immerses patients in realistic driving scenarios in a controlled, safe environment, allowing them to confront and gradually overcome their fears. By simulating various driving conditions, we help patients rebuild their driving skills and reduce anxiety, ultimately empowering them to return to everyday life with renewed assurance,” Ackland said.

Kim, a 62-year-old participant from Newcastle, shared her experience with the program.

“I was recommended the Virtual Reality therapy program by my case manager at Allianz after a nasty car accident where I was rear-ended, causing my vehicle to roll and collide with a tree. The therapy sessions helped me tremendously with the PTSD I was suffering following the accident. The psychologists at Sydney Phobia Clinic were incredibly supportive, with positive encouragement rather than pressure. After just a few sessions, I made great progress and I’ve since managed to get back behind the wheel and back to doing the things I love,” Kim said.

Positive Outcomes and Broader Access

An independent assessment by the University of New South Wales confirmed the program’s effectiveness, showing significant improvements in participants’ independence and ability to return to pre-accident activities.

Based on the success of the pilot, Allianz is now rolling out the program to rural and regional customers through oVRcome, a smartphone-based subscription service with a VR headset. This approach aims to ensure equitable access to therapy for customers across Australia.

Allianz is also collaborating with the Fear Less phobia clinics in Sydney and Wollongong, with additional pilot programs underway in Queensland and South Australia.

Expanding Mental Health Support

Allianz’s focus on psychological recovery highlights the growing need for comprehensive support following motor vehicle accidents. By leveraging technology like VR therapy, the company aims to help more customers overcome barriers to recovery.

For more information on Allianz’s VR therapy program, visit www.allianz.com.au/car-insurance/articles/helping-customers-overcome-vehicle-ptsd.html.

Last Updated on December 16, 2024 by Nick Ross