Rural Speed
The facts
- Car drivers and passengers are three times more likely to die on a rural road than a busy street.
- In 2006, more than 60 per cent of all deaths due to road accidents were in rural areas.
-
The people most at risk on rural roads are young men, predominantly aged between 17 and 39.
Source: www.dft.gov.uk
Dangers of rural roads
- Blind corners
- High hedges/trees
- Wet or icy conditions
- Narrow carriageway
- No pavements
- Pot holes
- Debris, such as fallen branches or farm waste
Source: Brake - the Road Safety Charity
Tips
- Driving on country roads can seem safer because of the lack of traffic - but statistics show that drivers and passengers are more likely to die on a rural road than a busy street. THINK! has put together some tips to raise drivers' awareness of the dangers:
- Drive at the appropriate speed for the conditions
Only around 10 per cent of drivers actually go over the speed limit on rural roads, but deaths are three times that of road fatalities generally. Remember that it's still possible to drive at an inappropriate speed even if you're within the speed limit. - Be careful by day - and by night
An equal number of accidents happen in daylight and at night-time, although accidents at night tend to be more serious. One of the hazards of driving at night is that other drivers' headlights can temporarily blind you. -
Be aware of single carriageway hazards
Most casualties on country roads happen on A and minor roads.
Source: www.dft.gov.uk
Do you ALWAYS make sure your passengers wear seatbelts? Thank you for your vote!
results
