National Road Safety Week

How many of you remember the road safety advertisement with the little girl who comes back to life after she's been knocked down and killed? Road safety laws are there for a good reason, yet at least eight children are killed every day as a result of drivers going too fast.

Now how many of you know that National Road Safety week occurs the week of 21st -27th November 2011? Every year the charity Brake uses the week to raise awareness of the devastating impact road deaths and life changing injuries caused by road accidents have on families.

They will also be putting the message across that these life changing events are often preventable, and are often caused by drivers not adhering to the speed limits or using a mobile phone while driving, drink driving or driving after taking drugs.

Brake tries to raise awareness that road crashes are not road accidents and many could be prevented, often by just by asking the simple question, am I fit to drive? 

In-car distractions can have a serious effect on a driver’s ability to drive safely.

Activities such as using a mobile phone, (even hands-free) smoking a cigarette, changing a CD, unwrapping and eating sweets have resulted in fatal accidents and drivers being prosecuted for careless and dangerous driving.

One in twelve people will be injured as a pedestrian at some time during their life, 1 in 450 will die. Not surprisingly, the majority of pedestrians (85%) are injured by cars and almost always in urban areas. Speed is a major factor. If hit by a vehicle travelling at 20 mph, 5% of pedestrians will be killed; at 30 mph 50% will die and at 40 mph 95% of pedestrians hit will result in a fatality.

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident which was not your fault, Stephensons can help you claim the compensation you deserve. Our specialist road traffic accident claims solicitors have successfully pursued payouts for many people with injuries ranging from minor to severe. To discuss your case with one of our friendly specialist lawyers, call us on 0844 245 6601.

By road traffic accident claims handler, Sam Ord.

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