Killed or seriously injured casualties on UK roads rise
The number of people killed or seriously injured on British roads rose four per cent from 2024 to 2025, according to government figures.
It reported that although fatalities fell by four per cent from 1,602 to 1,538, serious injury numbers increased by four per cent from 27,262 to 28,380.
In total, 29,918 people were killed or seriously injured in crashes last year compared to 28,864 in 2024.
The statistics also show that 63% of fatal collisions last year involved speed, alcohol or drugs, not wearing seatbelts, or using a mobile phone. Speed alone contributed to 52% of fatal crashes, while alcohol or drugs was a factor in 21%.
Meanwhile, 38% of those killed or seriously injured were car occupants, with pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists making up 56% of road casualties.
Road Safety Week
Ross Moorlock, CEO of road safety charity Brake, said: “It is heartening to hear that fewer people died as a result of road crashes last year than in 2024. However, more people are sustaining serious, life-changing injuries and this is not acceptable, especially considering the fact that these outcomes are avoidable.
“We bear witness to the real-life impact of road death and serious injury every day. Brake’s National Road Victim Service supported around 3,200 people in 2025 – more than ever before. These are real people whose lives have been thrown into turmoil after devastating collisions, and real families who will forever be dealing with the trauma crashes cause.
“The numbers are alarming and really highlight the urgent need for measures to prevent road collisions.
“That’s why Road Safety Week 2026 [15-21 November] is more important than ever. We need everybody to commit to playing their part in making the roads safer places to be – every journey, every time.”
