Road deaths spark calls for change in government policy

31 May 2007

Figures show a steady rise in the number of cyclist deaths and serious injuries (Pic: Mark Wohlwender)

The latest statistics suggesting there was no fall in the number of fatal crashes in 2006, and a rise in cyclist deaths, have prompted calls for a government policy switch.
Road safety charity Brake called for action from the Department for Transport following the release of provisional casualty figures for the final quarter of 2006.
The number of crashes involving a death increased from 2,913 in 2005 to 2,920 in 2006. While the Government was on track to cut the numbers killed and seriously injured by 40%, the reduction in fatal crashes ‘are still shockingly small’, said Brake.
It was alarmed at a steady rise in the number of cyclist deaths and serious injuries. In 2006, this had risen by 2%, from 2,360 to 2,420. This followed ‘a horrifying’ 30% hike in cyclist deaths from 2003 to 2005. The total number of deaths, 3,150, was only down a fraction from 3,201 in 2005, and 12% less than the 1994-98 baseline.
Cathy Keeler, head of campaigns at Brake, said: ‘There are still nine deaths on our roads every day. The Government must wake up to the urgent need for off-road cycle paths, compulsory 20mph limits, and a crackdown on dangerous drivers.’

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Road deaths spark calls for change in government policy

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