This study examines trends in Britain in the 1966-1990 period and the fitting of statistical models to assess whether significant changes have taken place in casualty rates since its local bus deregulation in the year 1986. The evidence indicates that no significant change in casualty rates for bus and coach occupants has occurred since local bus deregulation, although the previous trend of reduction in fatality rates has not been maintained. International comparisons have been made between Britain and a sample of other West European countries. Britain appears to have a higher occupant fatality rate. However, other countries' data do not always include casualties to bus and coach occupants other than those in which vehicular collisions occur. Better comparative data is available for accidents involving buses and coaches with other road users, notably for Britain and Germany. These suggest that such accidents tend to reflect the national pattern of road casualty rates. For example, Germany has a higher level of collisions between buses and coaches, and other road vehicles, while Britain has a relatively high incidence of casualties involving pedestrians. The British experience suggests that measures to improve vehicle interiors and driving standards may be more important than fitting seat belts or increased 'roll-over' strength.
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