eli5 Why it feels like traumatic events happen in slow motion causing them to feel like they last longer than than the few seconds they actually do?

Question

I.e car accident

In: 41

Answer 1

“Full” time periods (fun, exciting or interesting things) seem shorter when they’re happening but longer later on. They fly by but you make loads of memories.

“Empty” time periods (boring or dull things) seem longer when they’re happening but shorter later on. They go on for ages but you can barely remember them.

Traumatic events like falling over or getting in a car crash feel longer because you create a lot of memories. You’re full of adrenaline and your brain is trying to figure out what’s happening and how to regain control. It’s kind of like your life flashing before your eyes, but all the memories are of a split second ago.