Northumberland's roads are most dangerous in the region

Posted by The Journal on Nov 5, 08 09:48 AM in News

ROAD users in Northumberland are more likely to be killed or seriously injured in traffic accidents than anywhere else in the region.

Last year 167 people died or were badly hurt in road accidents in the county - equivalent to 5.4 in every 10,000 population, compared with a national average of 5.2.

Department for Transport statistics for 2007 are being used by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP) to launch a safety campaign aimed at road users as the darker winter nights draw in.

Northumberland's casualty rate of 5.4 people per 10,000 population is the highest in the region, with Hartlepool second at 4.7, Gateshead third at 4.5 and Sunderland and Durham joint fourth at 4.3.

The safest area in the region for road users is South Tyneside, where only 2.8 people in 10,000 were killed or seriously injured last year. The regional average is four people per 10,000.

The figures cover vehicle drivers and passengers, motorcyclists, cyclists, horse riders and pedestrians.

Nationally, the North East is the safest region in the country with its rate of four per 10,000. Road users in Yorkshire and Humber are most likely to be killed or seriously injured, with a rate of 6.2 last year.

Physiotherapists play a key role in the rehabilitation of road accident victims.

CSP chair of council Liz Cavan said: "The main message here is that prevention is better than cure. Road users - including pedestrians, cyclists and drivers - need to be extra vigilant about their own and other people's safety.

"It's also the responsibility of local councils to ensure that roads are in good repair and that there is enough street lighting to keep everyone visible and safe at night.

"Many injuries caused by road traffic accidents are avoidable. The CSP is urging everyone to be especially careful in the darker winter months when using roads, and is urging councils to ensure road safety is a top priority."

Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents advice to road users includes watch your speed and leave plenty of room from the car in front, be vigilant for pedestrians and two-wheelers, don't try to battle the traffic and allow extra time for journeys.

We'd like to hear from you.
Send your stories, pics and videos