Road casualties in Great Britain - RAC reaction to latest figures

Reacting to the publication of the 2018 road casualty figures by the Department for Transport, RAC head of policy Nicholas Lyes said:

“This latest set of data makes for disappointing reading. In short, there has been no meaningful reduction in fatalities at a national level for seven consecutive years now. While we welcome the Government’s renewed focus with the publication of its recent road safety statement, there needs to be a significant shift in policy that will result in far fewer serious collisions.

“Of particular concern are the rises in fatalities among older age groups and a spike in fatalities on motorways – some worrying trends are emerging here that require immediate investigation, to understand the reasons for these increases and what can be done to reduce them. In addition, the Government’s data suggests an increase in motorway collisions where at least one driver has been under the influence of illegal drugs.

“Historically, Great Britain has been proud of its road safety record, but these figures clearly show that is no room for complacency.”

Press team

Press team

For journalist enquiries only

Share

Latest stories

Website preview
RAC reaction: Breakdowns up by a fifth during heatwave
RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said: “Our roadside patrols handled a fifth more breakdowns yesterday than what's normal for this time in June, with London, Essex, Kent and Sussex all seeing the biggest increases in vehicles failing in the hot weather. Top faults included tyres – with blowouts more common in the heat as pressure in the rubber builds – batteries and, of course, overheated engines. Today is looking just as busy as temperatures climb even higher.
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Fleets could cut fuel costs by up to 15% through smarter driver data
RAC Connected data from driver telematics shows how data-led driver engagement is delivering immediate savings for UK fleet operators under cost pressure
media.rac.co.uk
Website preview
Breakdowns 20% up during heatwave
RAC breakdown spokesperson Simon Williams said: "Tuesday was a very busy day for breakdowns with our patrols finishing the day 20% busier than normal for late June and Wednesday is looking even more challenging as more cars are succumbing to the extreme heat. We strongly urge people to avoid driving unless it's essential, as breaking down in these conditions is potentially life threatening if they aren't properly prepared. Being stuck at the side of a hot road without enough water and some form of shade is very serious. For this reason our patrols are also carrying extra bottles of water to give to broken-down members.
media.rac.co.uk

Get updates in your mailbox

By clicking "Subscribe" I confirm I have read and agree to the Privacy Policy.

About RAC Media Centre

The RAC Media Centre provides journalists and news outlets with the latest motoring-related news, comment, data and research.

About the RAC

The RAC is an iconic British driving services brand and has been championing drivers since 1897. Today it is one of the UK’s most trusted names, providing complete peace of mind ® to over 15 million drivers across breakdown cover, insurance, and mobile servicing and repairs.

Its nationwide patrol force attends more than two million breakdowns every year, while its position as the UK’s leading independent insurance broker helps motorists find the right cover with confidence. The RAC has also reshaped the service, maintenance and repair market with its Mobile Mechanics, who carry out servicing and repairs at drivers’ homes or workplaces.

Committed to innovation, the RAC is fully electric ready with mobile EV charging technology for stranded drivers, and a suite of digital and data‑led solutions that make motoring easier and more affordable for consumers and fleets. These services come together in myRAC – the all‑in‑one app for vehicle maintenance, cheaper fuel finding and breakdown assistance.

Contact

media.rac.co.uk