It's a terrible thing to happen to a person. Language that minimizes negativity has great value when talking about (or with) persons in the post accident state.

It's a terrible thing to happen to a person. Language that minimizes negativity has great value when talking about (or with) persons in the post accident state. But here in this context, where we are talking about the event, in the abstract. That same minimization of negativity would only serve those willing to trade other people's safety for personal convenience. 1930s-esque language by the way excelled at glossing over horrors.