Independent analysis using the DfT’s new Key Outcome Indicators reveals huge variations in road safety risk across the country.
The study, conducted by Road Safety Analysis, reveals how local road safety performance has differed across the country over the last five years. The information is now available to the public and local authorities via an interactive mapping tool, or as a league table of performance.
The results reveal that per head of population, casualty rates are four times higher in the Borough of Westminster, North Yorkshire and Powys than in areas such as Plymouth, East Dunbartonshire and Torfaen.
Analysis of casualties based on traffic rates highlight Lambeth, Blackpool and the Isle of Wight as performing up to five times worse than South Gloucestershire, West Berkshire and Newport.
The research is based on five years’ data during which time more than 150,000 people have been killed or seriously injured (KSI) on Britain’s roads. The results are expressed as rates, depending on local traffic and population counts, enabling a more accurate comparison of risk to be made for the first time.
The DfT says that these indicators have been designed to help Government, local organisations and citizens to monitor progress towards improving road safety and decreasing the number of KSI casualties on Great British roads.
Richard Owen, director of Road Safety Analysis, says: “The results of this study show a worrying discrepancy between different parts of the country. Road users in some areas experience considerably higher risk from road traffic crashes than others who might be living just over the border.
“With the help of this sort of information, local authorities can develop a much better understanding of the risks experienced by their residents and road users, helping them to address the inequalities that many people are experiencing.”
Click here to see a breakdown of the results or for more information contact Richard Owen or Dan Campsall on 01295 731810.
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