UK road deaths rise despite fewer casualties overall
The Department for Transport’s provisional 2024 statistics reveal a complex picture. While total road casualties have fallen, fatalities rose by 1%, with 1,633 people killed — raising urgent questions about road safety priorities.
Who is most at risk on UK roads?
Gender disparities
Men continue to account for a disproportionate share of road deaths and injuries:
- 1,245 male deaths vs. 387 female deaths
- 77,451 male casualties vs. 49,402 female casualties
This disparity may reflect differences in driving behaviour and exposure — men generally drive more miles and engage in riskier behaviours. However, the slight drop in male casualties may signal slow progress.
Age-based risk patterns
- Children (0–16): 4% of deaths, 10% of total casualties
- Young adults (17–29): 22% of deaths, 28% of casualties
- Older adults (70+): 22% of deaths, only 8% of casualties
The 30–49 age group saw the highest casualty totals, likely due to regular commuting and family travel responsibilities.
Motorcyclist safety under spotlight
Motorcyclist fatalities have risen sharply. Though urban areas account for more incidents overall, the most severe crashes often happen on rural roads. Contributing factors include:
- Loss of control
- Impairment due to alcohol or drugs
- Poor visibility at junctions
- Speeding and misjudgement
- Driver negligence or failure to spot motorcyclists
How other road users can help
- Always check mirrors and blind spots
- Leave safe following distances behind motorcycles
- Take extra care at junctions and in low visibility
What the government plans to do next
The government is preparing an updated Road Safety Strategy. Focus areas are expected to include:
- Education campaigns for high-risk groups (e.g. young and male drivers)
- Improved infrastructure for cyclists, pedestrians, and e-scooter users
- Raising awareness around vulnerable road users such as motorcyclists and older people
What employers should do
Where staff drive for work — whether cars, vans or bikes — employers must have robust policies in place. Occupational road risk is a key area of duty under health and safety law.
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