RAC comments on provisional Scottish casualty figures for 2014

Commenting on the release today of provisional 2014 statistics for road casualties in Scotland by Transport Scotland, the RAC's head of external affairs Pete Williams said:

“The increase in the numbers of people killed or seriously injured in Scotland will focus transport minds, but the longer term outlook in Scotland is reasonably positive – overall casualties are now at their lowest level since records began, and the Scottish Government has clearly defined targets for reducing the numbers of people killed or seriously injured. In twelve months’ time, we will find out if the 2015 target of a 30% reduction in people killed on the roads compared to 2004-08 averages has been met.

“Both Scotland and Wales have published targets for reducing road casualties – England now stands out in not having any, and this is something that the RAC has highlighted on several occasions. While there are a wide range of factors that contribute to casualty figures, the Transport Secretary should bring back targets so the Government can measure fully whether their policies are making England’s roads safer, or whether there is more to do.”