Compared with the average for 1994-8, a reduction of 40% in the number of people killed or seriously injured in accidents, a 50% reduction for children and a 10% reduction in the slight casualty rate by 2010 are required in the UK. In 2001 the reductions in these figures were 15%, 28% and 6%, respectively. More detailed comparisons show that the number of cyclists killed or seriously injured decreased by 6%, the number killed or seriously injured on the motorways is 6% higher (reflecting an increase in motorway traffic), and the number of child cyclists killed or seriously injured has decreased by 40%. Two-wheeled motor vehicle user casualties have increased by 19%, possible reflecting increased use of these vehicles. Details are also given for car, bus, coach and goods vehicle users. The total cost benefit value of prevention of road accidents in 2001 is estimated to be ú17,418 million, of which ú12,530 million is attributable to personal injury accidents. Non built-up roads accounted for a higher proportion of the value because a higher proportion of fatal or serious accidentsoccurred on them. Data on motor insurance claims are provided.
Abstract