National Road Victim Month: The Lasting Impact of a Road Traffic Incident

The impact of a road traffic collision lasts far beyond the incident and can have a long-term effect on individuals and their families years later. In the Government's latest road safety statistics, 27,865 people were seriously injured, and 1,602 people were killed on Great Britain's roads in 2024.

During National Road Victim Month Slater and Gordon is highlighting the reality for those who have been affected by a road traffic accident. From suffering injury to facing bereavement, the impact of a road traffic accident can be deeply devastating and long-lasting.

Bob Miller, senior associate solicitor at Slater and Gordon, has more than 20 years supporting road traffic injury claims. Through his experience supporting client, he understands the various impacts a road injury can have.

He said: “The impact of a road traffic collision goes much further than just injury. During recovery, many victims and their families find themselves navigating various challenges to overcome what has happened.

“They face legal processes, there’s workplace adjustments, financial challenges and they may face hardships with their mental wellbeing. It is genuinely one of the most difficult things anyone can experience.”

The long-term impact of Injury

Whilst the immediate aftermath of a road traffic collision focuses on the initial physical injury, for many, injuries can have long-term or life-changing consequences.

“Many of the clients we support share the lasting effect their injury has on their life,” said Bob.

“Some may experience continued chronic pain for years after. For others who have sustained a more severe injury, such as a brain or spinal injury, they may be unable to work and now require the long-term support of loved ones.

“The post-recovery process can mean adapting to a different way of living, where they may navigate a loss of independence and managing financial uncertainty if their injury has prevented them the ability to work.”

The emotional toll of a road traffic collision

The emotional effects of a road traffic collision can be just as significant as the physical injuries sustained. People may assume the recovery journey comes to an end when injuries heal, yet, as Bob explains, this isn’t always the case.

He said: “Many underestimate the mental health impact a road traffic collision can have. Coming to terms with what has happened and facing the difficulties of overcoming any injuries, especially life-changing ones, can cause mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety or depression.

“We have supported clients who have expressed poor mental wellbeing as a result of their injuries, that can also take a toll on their confidence, put a strain on their relationships and cause difficulties returning to a normal routine.”

Bereavement

When a road traffic collision has resulted in the loss of life, the impact on their families can be immeasurable.

Bob says: “Bereavement caused by a road traffic collision is devastating. Not only are families facing loss of a loved one but are often then faced with investigations and legal processes during an already stressful and emotional time.

“As a serious injury solicitor, we recognise our responsibility to offer support and guidance during these difficult moments. We have a duty of care to help families navigate some of these practical challenges whilst they come to terms with what has happened.

“We work with some fantastic charity partners that specialise in road traffic incident injury and loss, which offer specialised bereavement services, resources and support groups. It is so important that families, and friends, access these services to gain the strength to move forward.”

Moving forward

National Road Victim Month is an important time to understand the real-life consequences of road traffic collisions that affects individuals, families as well as the specialist services responding to such incidents.

Bob added: “Behind the statistics, this is a life changed or tragically lost. The impact of a road traffic collision can be experienced for years.

“Therefore, National Road Victim Month is an opportunity to recognise why road safety matters and share awareness of the support available to those affected by road injury.”

Steve Hardman is a Police Relationship Manager at Slater and Gordon, where he works closely with the firm's charity partners that support victims of road traffic incidents and their families.

Before joining the firm, Steve served as a Roads Policing Officer with Lancashire Police. During his policing career, he gained extensive experience investigating road traffic collisions, providing post-incident support, promoting road safety awareness, and championing campaigns aimed at reducing fatalities and serious injuries on the roads.

Steve said: "Throughout my career, both as a police officer attending serious and fatal collisions and now through my work with charities supporting those affected, I have witnessed the profound and lasting impact road traffic incidents can have on individuals and families. Lives can change in an instant.

“Our charity partners play a vital role in providing emotional and practical support to victims and their loved ones during incredibly difficult times. Coming to terms with the consequences of a serious collision is often a long and challenging journey, and access to the right support can make a significant difference in helping people rebuild their lives."