Psychosocial consequences of traffic accidents: a two year follow-up

The aim of the study was to assess long term outcome of injuries from traffic accidents with focus on psychosocial aspects. Eighty-four persons injured in traffic accidents and with moderate to severe injuries (ISS > or = 9) were interviewed approximately two years after the accident. We examined psychosocial consequences within eight different domains; sequelae of the injury, psychological consequences, sickness compensation received, living conditions, need of assistance, working capacity, economic situation and leisure time activity. Sixty-eight percent of the persons reported that they still suffered from physical seqelae and 57% had been or were still suffering from psychological distress after the accident. Sixty-three percent were on the sick-list for at least three months because of the accident. Fifty-eight percent needed some type of handicap aid during some time after the accident. For 29% of the professionally employed the traffic accident led to changed working conditions. The study indicates a need not only for adequate medical treatment, but also psychological and social counseling in the rehabilitation of victims of traffic accidents. Resources for crisis intervention should also be available at an early stage.