A 10% drop in fatalities on UK roads has been revealed by the latest figures released by the Department for Transport.
In the year leading to March 2011 1,870 people died in incidents reported to the police – a fall of 211 compared to the preceding 12 months. The figure means that deaths on British roads are among the lowest since records began in 1926.
Drink-driving deaths fell to 250 in 2010 compared to 380 in 2009, show other numbers released by the government. Drink-driving figures date back to 1979, when 1,640 people died in alcohol-related incidents.
“The provisional figures suggest the number of drink-drive deaths is now 83 per cent lower than 30 years ago – this is very welcome. However, we are determined to continue to take firm action against the small minority of drivers who still ignore the limit,” said Transport minister Norman Baker.
“These figures are encouraging, and just go to show the good work our members are doing in reeducating drivers caught committing minor offences. We hope that these schemes won’t fall victim to swingeing government cuts,” commented Steve Garrod, DIA group manager.