How can employers and colleagues best support a member of staff following a serious collision on the road? Caitlin Taylor, RoSPA’s Road Safety Manager, England, gives advice on the right approach.

In the wake of a road traffic collision, the human cost is profound, reaching far beyond the immediate victims to deeply affect families, friends, and even colleagues. The way in which employers respond to those affected by such tragedies—whether as witnesses, victims, survivors, or bereaved individuals—can have a significant impact.

As we continue to acknowledge the human side of road traffic collisions, it is crucial to recognise that we are whole people, with entire lives, and wellbeing must be treated as the top priority.

From my experience providing emotional support to those impacted by road traffic collisions, it has become abundantly clear that the effects of such incidents ripple across every aspect of life. While workplaces often focus on productivity, it is time to reconsider priorities. Employees are more than just workers; they are individuals with families, emotions, and personal challenges. When tragedy strikes, whether through injury, trauma, or loss, the primary focus should shift to wellbeing—because an employee’s coping, emotional stability, and support systems are foundational to any future contribution they can make.

The immediate aftermath: When work becomes secondary to healing

For employees who are directly involved in a road traffic collision, the aftermath is an overwhelming period, both physically and emotionally. Many may face an extended absence from work. Others may attempt to return too soon, driven by financial or societal pressures. While some may desire to return to work, returning prematurely can exacerbate emotional distress and hinder physical recovery, making it crucial that employers recognise the importance of time away from work if they wish.

Workplaces need to support affected employees by offering flexible leave options, phased returns and adjustments that can help them transition back when they are ready. This support sends a clear message: their wellbeing is the priority, which it always should be. It acknowledges that while work is important, it is only sustainable when the individual is supported holistically and is allowed to regain their health and strength in their own time.

One of the greatest challenges for employees after a collision is the potential onset of post-traumatic stress. Flashbacks, heightened anxiety, and feelings of vulnerability can make focusing on work or engaging with colleagues difficult. Therefore, offering access to mental health support, such as trauma-informed therapy, counselling services and Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs) is essential. Employers should ensure these resources are easily accessible, confidential, and free from stigma, so employees feel empowered to seek the support they need without fear of judgement.

Supporting bereaved employees: Prioritising compassion over productivity

For those who have lost a loved one in a road traffic collision, the experience of grief is one that can shake their very foundation. The trauma of sudden loss often leaves individuals struggling with overwhelming emotions - shock, anger, sadness - and an inability to focus on anything, let alone work. In these circumstances, work can seem irrelevant, and the idea of returning to it can feel like an impossible task.

Employers must recognise the importance of offering a compassionate and flexible approach when supporting grieving employees. There is no “right” way to grieve, and no set timeline for this. Some employees may need extended leave to mourn and adjust, while others may wish to return sooner for a sense of normality. Employers should be open to discussing these needs and adapting work arrangements accordingly, whether that means time off, temporary changes in duties or offering space for employees to adjust at their own pace.

The role of colleagues: Building a culture of support

It’s not only the employer’s responsibility to offer support but also the colleagues who make up the workforce. Employees who have witnessed or heard about a colleague’s involvement in a road traffic collision may feel uncertain about how to offer support. Fear of saying the wrong thing or intruding on someone's grief can cause hesitation. However, it is crucial that workplaces foster a culture of compassion and care.

While it’s important to respect individual boundaries, colleagues can play a pivotal role in helping employees feel supported. Simple acts of kindness, such as offering a listening ear, checking in, or helping with practical tasks, can have a profound impact. This support helps bereaved or injured employees feel less isolated and more connected to the workplace community. By prioritising care and understanding over performance, teams can provide a safety net for those dealing with trauma and loss.

The importance of road safety awareness in the workplace

As employers work to support employees affected by road traffic collisions, it is equally important to address the prevention of such incidents in the first place. Workplaces have a responsibility to promote road safety not just as a policy, but as a core part of their culture. By providing employees with road safety training, encouraging safe driving habits, and supporting initiatives that raise awareness of the risks on the road, employers can help reduce the likelihood of collisions in the future.

Employers should also be proactive in encouraging road safety initiatives that include safe commuting practices and raising awareness about mental health and stress management. Creating a culture that values not only safe roads but also employees' overall wellbeing is essential in reducing the risk of road traffic collisions and promoting a healthier, more mindful workplace.

Moving forward: Reconsidering our priorities

At the heart of supporting employees is the recognition that we are all whole human beings with lives that extend beyond the office. We are parents, children, partners, and friends, and when tragedy strikes, it must be recognised that our personal wellbeing is paramount. The workplace should not be a place that only measures output, but a space that prioritises the person as a whole - emotionally, physically and mentally.

Employers must be genuinely committed to supporting employees affected by road traffic collisions, as mere lip service is not enough. It's not enough to offer empty condolences or superficial policies; true support requires a deeper, authentic engagement with the wellbeing of employees. This means understanding their individual needs, providing meaningful resources, and offering flexibility with a sincere willingness to adapt. When employers show genuine care, it fosters trust and creates an environment where employees feel safe, valued and supported, enabling them to navigate their trauma with the understanding they truly need.

This shift in priorities - to recognise the humanity of employees and offer compassion in times of trauma - has the potential to create a healthier, more supportive work culture that benefits everyone.

The human impact of road traffic collisions reaches far beyond the collision itself, and we must all work together to ensure that those affected receive the care and support they need, both in the workplace and beyond.
 

Caitlin Taylor is RoSPA’s Road Safety Manager for England.