Every August, we observe National Road Victim Month, established by RoadPeace – a solemn time to remember those who have lost their lives or been seriously injured on our roads.

Sadly, here at Farleys we see firsthand the devastating impact road traffic collisions have on individuals and their families. Behind every statistic is a story of grief, trauma and lives are forever changed.

Statistics from the Department for Transport

According to the latest figures from the Department for Transport, shared by RoadPeace, 1,624 people were killed on Britain’s roads in 2023.  This is a 5% decrease from the previous year. While any reduction is welcome, this number remains tragically high. Even more concerning is the fact that 29,711 people were reported killed or seriously injured, a figure that has remained largely unchanged for over a decade.

Why road safety still matters

This stagnation is not just a statistical anomaly; it’s a reflection of a deeper issue. As RoadPeace rightly points out, there is a concerning complacency around road safety. Despite advances in vehicle technology and awareness campaigns, the needle has barely moved. Families continue to suffer and communities continue to mourn.

One of the most troubling aspects highlighted in the report is the discrepancy between police reports and hospital data. While fatalities are usually recorded, many non-fatal injuries go unreported, meaning the true scale of road harm is likely even greater. This underreporting not only skews our understanding of the problem but also undermines efforts to implement effective safety measures.

National Road Victim Month is not just about remembrance; it’s a call to action. It’s a time to honour those that have been lost and by committing to a future where such tragedies are no longer routine.

We at Farleys are keen to use this month to amplify the voices of victims, support the work of organisations like RoadPeace and demand the changes needed to make our roads truly safe.

Contact a Personal Injury Specialist

If you or someone you know has been affected by a road traffic collision and you require advice on how to deal with it, contact our specialist solicitors for a free, no-obligation chat about any potential case.