Every August, National Road Victim Awareness Month shines a light on a sobering reality that touches countless families across the UK. Behind every road traffic accident statistic is a real person – someone’s parent, partner, child, or friend – whose life has been changed forever by circumstances often beyond their control.
As solicitors, we see firsthand the profound impact these incidents have on individuals and families. While we can’t undo what’s happened, we can ensure that victims receive the justice and support they deserve on their path to recovery.
The Hidden Impact of Road Traffic Accidents
On average, five people lose their lives and around 80 suffer serious injuries in road collisions every day in the UK. August was chosen as the designated month to remember victims, including the first pedestrian in the UK to be killed by a car, Bridget Driscoll, on 17 August 1896.
Road traffic accidents don’t just result in immediate physical injuries. The longer-term effects can be life-altering, affecting many aspects of a person’s daily life. This can include people facing:
- Lengthy recovery periods that prevent them from working or caring for their families
- Ongoing medical expenses that weren’t anticipated
- The need for home modifications or specialist equipment
- Psychological trauma that affects their confidence and wellbeing
- A loss of independence that negatively affects their overall quality of life.
These challenges are real, and they deserve recognition and compensation.
Understanding Your Legal Rights
In the aftermath of a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault, it’s important to understand that legal support is available. A claim for compensation can be pursued by a solicitor who you instruct. The process also enables the early involvement of a rehabilitation expert who will assess your situation and identify the steps to be taken to expedite your recovery and give you the best outcome.
Building Your Case with Care
Should you choose to make a claim, your solicitor will work collaboratively with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals to build a comprehensive picture of how the accident has affected your life. This isn’t just about the immediate costs – they will look at the long-term impact on your earning capacity, your care needs, and your overall quality of life.
Fighting for Fair Compensation
Your solicitor will work diligently so you receive compensation that accurately represents the full extent of your losses. This includes:
- Urgent medical bills
- Lost earnings and reduced earning capacity
- The value of care and assistance received
- Property damage
- Pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life
How can I be Involved in this Years Awareness Month?
There are many ways you can support National Road Victim Month, such as:
Champion Safer Roads: Get involved in local road safety initiatives, advocate for responsible driving habits like staying within speed limits, remaining focused behind the wheel, and never driving impaired.
Extend a Helping Hand: Consider contributing time or resources to charities and support groups dedicated to helping road accident survivors and bereaved families navigate their challenges.
Spread the Word: Leverage social networks and local community channels to spread road safety messages, share meaningful stories, and educate others about accident prevention.
Comment
If you’ve been involved in a road traffic accident that wasn’t your fault, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. The law recognises your right to compensation, and we’re here to help you claim it.
How can we help?
Richard Wilson is a Partner in our expert Personal Injury team.
Richard deals with all types of accident and injury claims, whether they be road traffic accidents, injury in the work place or public places.
If you require further advice on the above, please contact Richard or another member of the personal injury team on 0330 111 3131 or via our contact form.