Supporting road crash victims: The road to recovery
Road traffic collisions are a tragic reality for many. Last year, 1,695 people died on UK roads. This is about five fatalities every day. For those who survive, recovery can be long and complex, involving not just physical healing, but also emotional and financial challenges.
Understanding the scale of the issue, and how victims can be supported, is critical in improving their quality of life.
Brake, a charity which works to prevent crashes and the harm they cause, holds its Road Safety Week campaign each year. Bolt Burdon Kemp is one of Brake’s strategic partners, and through our partnership we work for improved road safety alongside Brake and fight for justice for those who have been injured or lost loved ones in road traffic collisions.
The human cost of road crashes
The impact of a road crash can vary dramatically depending on the severity of the collision. Common injuries include whiplash, fractures, and soft tissue damage, which can lead to chronic pain and long-term mobility issues.
More serious incidents often result in life-changing injuries such as spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries, and in some cases, permanent disability. Approximately 29,000 people sustained serious, life-changing injuries on UK roads last year, a stark reminder of the scale of the suffering. This alarmingly high figure emphasises the importance of improving road safety for all.
The financial and emotional impact
The physical toll of a road crash is just one aspect of the suffering involved. Victims also frequently face emotional trauma, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Road crash survivors are at an increased risk of developing psychological issues, especially when their injuries result in long-term changes to their quality of life.
In addition to physical and emotional distress, road crash victims often suffer financially. The costs of time off work, medical treatment and rehabilitation can be overwhelming, especially when the injuries are severe.
For families dealing with the loss of a loved one, their grief can be compounded by the additional loss of the financial and physical support their loved one previously provided. At Bolt Burdon Kemp, we seek compensation for bereaved families who are no longer able to depend upon the earnings and care that they once received.
Seeking justice and compensation
For victims, seeking compensation can provide crucial financial relief, covering lost earnings, private medical expenses and rehabilitation costs.
Navigating the legal system can be complex, and victims often benefit from the expertise of a personal injury solicitor who can help them build a case and secure fair compensation. Although recovering from an injury or grieving following the loss of a family member can be all-consuming, it is recommended that reputable solicitors are approached at an early stage. They can then start gathering evidence concerning the collision and the family’s losses as well as requesting early interim payments.
In conclusion, road crash victims face a challenging journey toward recovery, both physically and emotionally. Behind every statistic is an injured person and a family in distress.
By raising awareness through initiatives like Brake’s Road Safety Week, improving road safety, and ensuring victims have access to legal support, we can help reduce the impact of these devastating collisions.
Ben Pepper is a Senior Associate at Bolt Burdon Kemp LLP, one of Brake’s strategic partners. As a leading serious injury firm, BBK witnesses the devastating impact of road traffic collisions on victims and their loved ones. Through its collaboration with Brake, BBK proactively works towards preventing such tragedies from occurring and support those who do fall victim to serious road crashes.
