Road safety is a shared responsibility and reflects the UK’s commitment to the well-being of its citizens. However, a recent spotlight on the UK’s alarming performance in reducing road fatalities is cause for concern. Tragically, 1,750 individuals, nearly 5 people per day, lost their lives on UK roads in 2022 and many more are disabled by serious injuries.
The Stark Reality of UK’s Underwhelming Performance
- Out of 32 European countries, the UK is the fifth-worst performer in reducing road fatalities.
- From 2012 to 2022, road deaths in the UK decreased by only 3%.
- Comparators like Sweden and Norway achieved a 20% reduction over the same period.
- If the UK had matched this performance we would have seen 300 fewer fatalities in 2022.
The Missing Strategy: Unlike the majority of European nations, there is no clear policy or initiative to improve road safety and the UK lacks any defined road death reduction target. It is high time the UK realigns its priorities, and sets a clear, long-term and joined-up road safety strategy.
We have recently seen the introduction in Wales of a 20 mph speed limit in residential areas. Analysis indicates this will result in 40% fewer collisions, 6-10 fewer death (in Wales alone) and 1,200 – 2,000 fewer injuries.
The statistics, comparisons, and low ranking serve not to discredit but to act as an urgent call to the UK government. Every fatality is a life lost, a family shattered, and a community impacted.
At Ringrose Law, we are all too aware of the ramifications of road traffic collisions and we believe it’s time the government is too. Have you or a loved one been impacted by a road accident? We can help navigate these challenges together with our guidance, support, and expert legal assistance. Email us at today.