Young male drivers dominate road casualty numbers
Figures released by the Department for Transport reveal that there were 1,602 road fatalities in Britain’ last year, with young male drivers most at risk.
The data also revealed that fatal and serious injuries for young drivers and their passengers remain disproportionately high when compared to other drivers, with male drivers aged 17 to 24 four times more likely to be killed or seriously injured than drivers aged 25 or over.
Rural roads remain a particular risk for young drivers, with 49% killed or seriously injured on them compared to 42% for other drivers.
Meanwhile, one in six (17%) of younger drivers involved in a serious crash were not wearing their seatbelt, compared to six per cent for those aged 50 and above.
Continued concern
Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at The AA, says: “These figures highlight the continued concern about young, novice drivers and their passengers. Implementing certain changes, such as limiting new drivers under the age of 21 from carrying peer aged passengers for a short term of six months after passing their test could save lives.”
He continued: “Every death and serious injury on our roads is a tragedy. Sadly, the figures show that little to no improvement to reduce the number of people injured on our roads, and highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive road safety strategy.”
Lack of progress
Meanwhile, IAM RoadSmart director of policy and standards Nicholas Lyes said: “Unfortunately, these figures demonstrate a troubling lack of progress in bringing down fatal and serious injuries on our road network. So much so, Great Britain has slipped down the international comparison table, ranking fourth compared to third in 2023.
“Of real concern is the significant eight per cent increase in motorcycle fatalities, which shows the need for more protection of some of the most vulnerable road users, while an increase in motorway fatalities is also alarming.
“We look forward to seeing the UK government’s refreshed road safety strategy which needs to show some serious ambition in bringing down the number of fatal and serious collisions.”
