Goods vehicles, large passenger vehicles and other large vehicles such as agricultural vehicles and mobile machinery make up a relatively small proportion of the vehicles on the roads in Great Britain (GB). However, the frequency and/or severity of their involvement in accidents can be disproportionate to the distances they travel. In 2008 they were involved in accidents that resulted in approximately 29% of all GB road fatalities and so these vehicles can have a significant influence on the UK’s road safety performance. This study has defined, quantified and prioritised a list of casualty groups that can be used to inform the relative priorities for future developments in vehicle safety. An assessment of potential safety measures has been undertaken and five measures that could be implemented through vehicle design and construction standards were selected for more detailed cost-benefit analysis. This is the second review of this kind, the first having taken place in 2006. (Author/publisher)
Abstract