Cycling deaths up 10%

The number of car occupant fatalities in 2012 decreased to 801, down 9% compared with 2011. There were 420 pedestrian deaths, 7% fewer than in 2011.

Overall, the latest Department for Transport road casualty statistics released today show a decrease in road casualty figures, the lowest number since records began in 1926.

The number of people killed in road accidents reported to the police decreased to 1,754 in 2012 from 1,901 in 2011.

The Institute of Advanced Motorists( IAM) said more must be done to protect cyclists.

IAMdirector of policy and research Neil Greig said:

“ IAMwelcomes a return to the long-term improvements in road safety that the UK has been rightly recognised for.

“Last year was a clear warning for government that complacency in road safety cost lives.

“The IAMhas always warned that failing to match investment in segregated facilities with the growing numbers of cyclists would lead to an increase in death and serious injury and this worrying trend continues.

“A 10% increase in cycling deaths in a year when the weather suppressed cycling trips is a real red danger signal that simply cannot be ignored.”

Last year the total reported child causalities (ages 0-15) fell by 11% to 17,251 in 2012; the number of children killed or seriously injured fell by 6% to 2,272 in 2012 from 2,412 in 2011.

The number of motorcycle users killed fell by 9% from 362 in 2011 to 328 in 2012 and the total reported motorcycle user casualties decreased by 4% to 19,310 in 2012.

The Department for Transport said:

“The UK has one of the best road safety records in the world, but more can be done to prevent deaths and serious injuries.

“By improving the skills and attitudes of drivers and riders, and providing better safety education, the government can further reduce the cost of emergency services, health and welfare services, insurance, traffic congestion, as well as the personal cost to people affected by road collisions.”