Nearly a year after her dirt bike accident, Nina Dobrev is still battling physical and mental hurdles

Nina Dobrev is still feeling the effects of a harrowing dirt bike accident that left her hospitalised nearly a year ago. The Vampire Diaries actress, who underwent knee surgery after the May 2024 crash, recently revealed that she hasn’t been able to get back on a bike—any bike—since the traumatic incident.

In a conversation with PEOPLE, Dobrev, 36, shared that while her recovery is progressing, she remains cautious about certain activities, including snowboarding, which she won’t be able to resume until summer.

“I’m definitely getting there,” she said. “I’m about 10 months into recovery.”

The accident caused serious knee damage, leading to surgery to repair a torn ACL, meniscus, and a fractured knee. While the actress has made significant strides in her rehabilitation, she admitted that full recovery typically takes about a year.

“I’m a few months away from being in the clear and being allowed to do things like snowboarding again,” she added. “Right in time for summer.”

However, despite her physical progress, Dobrev revealed she still experiences psychological barriers. The fear of getting back on a bike—whether a dirt bike or a regular one—has lingered long after the physical wounds began to heal.

“I’m just anxious to feel fully normal and not feel like there’s a mental fear,” she explained. “There’s a little bit of trepidation trying things again.”

She confessed that she hadn’t even attempted to ride a bicycle since the accident.

“The accident happened on a dirt bike, but I haven’t even been able to get on a bicycle since,” she admitted. “Which I wouldn’t want to tackle soon.”

The Sick Girl star’s remarks highlight the lasting psychological effects of traumatic injuries, proving that recovery isn’t just about healing bones and muscles—it’s about overcoming fear.

As Dobrev continues her journey back to full strength, fans will be watching closely, hoping to see her return to the adventurous lifestyle she once embraced.