Statistics from the Department for Transport show that the number of child deaths and serious injuries on roads have risen for the first time since 1995 (view statistics). The figures indicate that the number of children under 16 killed or seriously injured (KSI) rose by 3% in the 12 months from September 2013 to September the following year.
Alarmingly, the figures did not point to a one-off, freak incident for the growth in the number of deaths and serious injuries on the road, but rather a rise in every quarter of 2014 in comparison to the previous year.
Was 2014 the roads’ most dangerous year?
The latest figures show a worrying trend for road users, with the vast majority of dangerous incidents on the rise in the UK. The total number of child casualties rose 6% with the total deaths of all road users rising by 1% to 1,730, whilst the number of slight injuries rose 5%.
The statistics also revealed dangers for other road users with the total number of cyclist casualties up by 8% and motorcyclist casualties rising by 6%.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) stated that the rise in the number of road and car accidents may be due to a lack of public spending and a reduction in the number of traffic police on the roads in the UK.
In a statement, the IAM said: “These figures reflect our view that cuts in visible policing and road safety spending has had an impact.”
The figures have been met with concern from road traffic safety groups and roadside organisations. The RAC said it was “alarming to see that years of progress on road safety appears to have come to an abrupt halt.”
Road safety charity Brake also criticised the figures stating that the casualty increases were “the tragic result of a failure of ambition.”
Bob Wilson of Personal Injury Bristol was equally despondent about these figures as he highlighted a rise in car accident claims that had personally come through to his own team. He said “we have seen a spike over the last 24 months in car accident and road crash claims in Bristol. Whilst this is a core aspect to our business, from a personal perspective it’s a very worrying trend if it’s also reflected on a national basis”.
First rise since 1995
The Department for Transport said: “These increases have now resulted in the first rise in rolling-year comparisons in child KSIs since the year ending March 1995.”
Transport minister Robert Goodwill said KSIs fell last summer compared with summer 2013 and felt that it was difficult to work out exactly why there had been a rise in the figures. He said: “Britain’s roads are still among the safest in the world and there are 40% fewer road deaths per year than a decade ago.
“There remains a significant long-term decline in casualties.”
Goodwill also stated that through cooperation with other agencies, and local police units, the Department for Transport would strive to reduce the alarming figures and promote better road awareness for all road users.
If you are involved in a road or car accident
Despite the vast amount of traffic on Britain’s roads, the UK has one of the best health and safety records in Europe. Whiplash and other road traffic injuries are one of the main causes of personal injuries in the UK, with some accidents having lasting effects.
If you are involved in an accident on the road it is imperative that you take note of as many details as possible in order to allow your personal injury solicitor to build the strongest possible case. Details such as where, when and how the accident occurred are essential.
Whiplash is one of the most common injuries to receive in a road traffic incident and usually occurs when one vehicle crashes into the back of the other. Whilst whiplash gets a typical negative press, it is still a serious injury that can cause damage to tendons and significantly reduce movements.
If you have the misfortune of suffering from an injury following a road traffic incident it is important to seek medical support, not only does this back up your claim if you make a personal injury claim, but by seeking the support and advice of a specialist, you will ensure that you get the best treatment for your injuries.
Article Written and Supplied by Personal Injury Bristol. If you have suffered from a road or car accident in the last three years, then call their team today by calling 0117 911 4862 or by reading more about how they work on a no win no fee basis. All of their solicitors and lawyers work on no win no fee agreements and specialises in road and car crash claims in the Bristol area.
