Government blamed for increase in road deaths
First upsurge in road fatalities for a decade is down to poor political leadership, says Transport Select Committee
The report on road safety, published today, also registers alarm that so many cyclists are killed or injured on Britain's roads, and that road fatalities are the biggest killer of adults aged 16-24.
"We are very concerned that 2011 saw the first increase in road fatalities since 2003, with 1901 people killed on the roads," said Louise Ellman, chair of the Transport Committee. "It is shocking that road accidents are the main cause of death amongst young adults aged 16-24 and that so many cyclists continue to be killed or injured."
In 2011 there were 51 more deaths on the road (the most recent published figures) compared with 2010 and, says the committee, "the evidence we gathered suggests the principal factor in improving road safety is robust political leadership". The report also states unequivocally that the ditching of national road safety targets and the devolution of road safety responsibility to local councils is a problem, especially with deep budget cuts and reduced staff numbers at a local level.
But while the government is being criticised for its most recent performance, it is worth noting that road deaths have almost halved since 2003, last year's increase notwithstanding.
You can download the full report on the Commons Select Committee site here, while there's a fascinating infographic that was cooked up by the BBC back in 2009.
Pics: Robin Stott and John Firth
Make driving tests harder and more inclusive of day to day realities - like the motorway!!!
I read somewhere recently that Britain has the safest roads in Europe as a percentage of miles driven.
Seriously, I've never read such rubbish. Louise Ellman wasn't an asset when she was in charge of Lancashire County Council and she sure isn't an asset to anyone now she's squirmed her way into Parliament. It's political posturing, nothing less.
Labour will be blaming the rain on the coalition next, that's assuming they haven't already looked into how they can pin it on them already.
People need to take some effing responsibility
Ooops sorry thought I was on mumsnet!
OK how about compulsory wearing of cycle helmets, might help that one a little.
Also as I've said before, 18 year old nephew trying to insure his 1st car, base model saxo £3500, VTR saxo £4000, which one is he going to choose. Insurance companies should encourage base model low powered cars to young drivers by giving much cheaper policies.
Already there is a move to reduce speed limits to 40mph - this will just add to it.
Yes, better education, better standards, less stupidity, more consideration would reduce accidents but what chance is there of any of that?
Also, driving standards aside, I no longer think it's a safe proposition to cycle on main roads due to the level of traffic. I certainly don't feel comfortable doing it in busy periods, but certainly wouldn't want to stop those who do.
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