THE ROAD USER SUPPORT SERVICE IS A UNIQUE DEVON ORGANISATION THAT CAN HELP YOU TO A SPEEDY RECOVERY AFTER A ROAD TRAFFIC INCIDENT

Last year 1850 people were killed on Britain's roads and 22,660 seriously injured...

 Even a minor knock can deeply affect those involved emotionally and a major crash often causes concerns about using the road again.  The aftershock of a road traffic collision (RTC) can last long after any external scars have healed.

Glen King meets Rosemary Pell, Manager of The Road User Support Service (RUSS), a unique and professional service in Devon, known locally as the most effective post road crash trauma specialists.  The independent organisation is fully endorsed by Devon County Council, Road Safety Groups and Devon Drivers’ Centre.  RUSS provides a tailor made approach offering clients psychological, emotional and practical support to help them through this traumatic time and get their life back on track...



Rosemary Pell, Manager of The Road User Support Service (RUSS)



The team of qualified Counsellors and Advanced Driving Instructors, including an Advanced Motorcycle Instructor, offers complete rehabilitation assistance. The highly trained professionals help anyone involved in an RTC to regain their confidence and lessen anxiety following a traffic incident.  It is the only organisation of its type in the UK to offer this full service. 

Rosemary Pell says: 'RUSS creates a treatment plan specific to each client’s needs, which rebuilds driving confidence and resolves any emotional impact caused by a road incident.  We are able to provide assistance to anyone affected or involved in a collision, including witnesses and family members, irrespective of blame. RUSS has always worked independently and honestly, embracing strong ethical and professional values.  The team is 100% committed to helping people recover from their ordeal by dealing with clients face to face, treating them with the utmost respect, sensitivity and consideration.”

Although each person responds differently, according to their personality and past experiences, a wide range of common reactions can occur after being involved in a traumatic event, even if you were not the driver or in the vehicle at the time.

Our reaction will depend on a number of factors; how we were feeling at the time; any physical injuries incurred; how other people involved behaved plus our own personality and support system. 

Some characteristic and normal symptoms and reactions:

·         shock and disbelief

·         a feeling of helplessness and powerlessness

·         poor/disturbed sleeping patterns

·         flashbacks and intrusive thoughts

·         anger and irritability

·         social withdrawal

·         relationship problems

·         carelessness

·         guilt

Following an RTC it is usual to have a physical and emotional reaction that can last for a long time. Some post-crash symptoms may be overwhelming, distressing and disturbing so it is important to talk about the incident and express your emotions.

Advice and coping strategies following a road traffic incident:

·         ask for help from family, friends and professionals

·         writing a daily diary of your thoughts can be helpful

·         use relaxation techniques

For further details and the latest resource information visit: www.roadusersupportservice.co.uk or Tel: 01647 253264