subject: Increase In Road Deaths [print this page] In 2001, 1,901 people died on our roads compared to 1,850 in 2010, a three per-cent increase. And it wasnt only road deaths that increased. The number of people injured rose by just over 500 and the number of pedestrians killed saw a twelve per-cent increase too.
Its no surprise these figures have occurred after the Government cut road safety budgets and these actions have again been condemned by Motoring and Safety groups. Of course cuts had to happen considering the state of the world economy, but surely anyone with any sort of common sense could have seen this would have been the outcome? Some things just should not be compromised on and these new statistics prove that. Cuts to Road Safety budgets were always going to cause the deaths of more innocent people.
Its unfair to pin the blame on the Government completely though of course as after all theyre not the ones getting into their cars, driving dangerously or inconsiderately and causing road fatalities. Unfortunately theres a large minority of the public who couldnt care less about others, or themselves, or seriously overestimate their own driving ability. In the news this week Damon Hill recommended motorway speed limits be dropped to 55mph as most drivers dont have the ability to drive at those speeds (70mph). I almost agree, although I do think 55mph would be a little slow even though I personally rarely go over 60mph as Im never in a rush and its surprisingly relaxing sitting in the slow lane. 70mph is a decent speed for our motorways which I feel should also never be increased.
Again we come to attitudes and awareness. Its my opinion this large minority, have no idea of, and never give a second thought to the consequences of driving too fast or to close, and quite often both. Young, newly qualified male drivers were pin-pointed as being a particular concern and its quite right to think so. Trying to change attitudes is an almost impossible task. I cant see how most peoples attitudes will change unless theyre in a serious accident themselves and suddenly realise how lucky they were.
There are a couple of things that will help. The first is already out there which is the little black box some insurers are insisting young drivers have to be able to have insurance at all. The black boxs record all sorts of data including the time the car is used, the speed of the vehicle, and if its driven erratically. If any of these were proven then the insurance would be withdrawn. Some insurance companies also restrict on the time the car can be used, i.e. not after 10pm or before 5am. Another good move in my opinion and both should become compulsory.
The third move that the Government should look at is to make the Pass Plus scheme compulsory within 6 months of passing a driving test. This would improve awareness on our most dangerous roads like motorways and country lanes. I personally think this is an obvious move and cannot believe this hasnt happened already. My only conclusion is the Government are too focused on other things, are lazy, or simply dont care. Or all three.
