Road Safety Deaths 'Must Be Cut'

The number of children injured or killed on roads in Scotland is decreasing, but needs to be cut further, according to a road safety charity.

There were over 1000 child casualties in 2013, including 9 deaths.

Today is the start of Scottish Road Safety Week, it will focus particularly on keeping children safe, whether walking, cycling or in the car. The number of people killed and injured on Scotland’s roads has fallen significantly in recent years, since the 2009 introduction of Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2020. Figures for 2013, the most recent year available, show deaths and injuries were at the lowest levels since records began.

Michael McDonnell, director of Road Safety Scotland, said:

“The distinctive approach we have taken in recent years is keeping us on track to realising our vision that everyone can Go Safe on Scotland’s Roads to 2020, and beyond. We set clear targets for reducing casualties on our roads – backed up by action – and the most recent statistics available show we are at an all-time low.

“However, on Scotland’s roads in 2013 there were still 1,062 child casualties, 143 of whom were seriously injured, and nine died.  That is nine too many, so we must continue to reduce the number of children hurt and killed, and we will do all we can to keep our children safe. The 2015 Scottish Road Safety Week makes sure this message is at the forefront of peoples’ minds.”

Along with regional and local activities, Scottish Road Safety Week will also provide practical advice for parents, carers and schools on keeping children safer on Scotland’s roads.