So what’s going on here? The DfT is quick to point out that it’s too early to identify any specific trends in the data; the number of casualties of ‘other road users’ has spiked due to the rise in prevalence of e-scooters. However, casualties of all other road user types have fallen over the past decade, with occupants of cars, coaches, buses and goods vehicles seeing the most dramatic decrease.
Lyes believes the disparity between car occupant and vulnerable road user casualties could be down to driver complacency. He said: “Better built vehicles and in-vehicle aids are bringing car occupant casualties down. However, this is not translating into reductions for the most vulnerable road users. It suggests that drivers themselves may feel safe but that doesn’t necessarily translate into better driving standards. It could suggest the opposite.”
This view was echoed by the RAC’s senior policy officer, Rod Dennis. Describing the current statistics as “unacceptable”, he said: “Evidently, more needs to be done to ensure all road users are aware of their responsibilities when it comes to keeping everyone safe.”
Earlier this year, the Government unveiled its Road Safety Strategy, which plans to slash the number of people killed or seriously injured by 65 per cent by 2035. Many of the policies revolve around improving driving standards, such as mandating a minimum learning period for new drivers, plus introducing compulsory eyesight tests and potentially even cognitive tests for older drivers.
However, some believe the plans focus too heavily on drivers, with very little benefits to other road users: “The road safety strategy focuses on those areas where there are the biggest problems with the vehicles that cause the most serious injuries,” said Lyes.
“We would, however, argue that infrastructure provisions need to be strengthened with investment into physical infrastructure to protect riders and pedestrians,” he added. IAM RoadSmart says that more segregated cycle lanes, improved crash barriers to protect motorcyclists, and clearer pedestrian crossings could all help reduce casualties for vulnerable road users.
Auto Express has approached the DfT for comment.
Get even more from Auto Express, follow our channels…
• Google
• Reddit
• Whatsapp
