National Road Victim Month

As we enter the month of August, we are reminded to remember those who have been killed or injured on our roads. Organised by Charity RoadPeace, August is marked as National Road Victim month.

Road Traffic Accidents

National road victim month began after the tragic death of Princess Diana on 31st August 1997, which was the same day as the first ever person known to have been killed by a motor vehicle in 1869, Mary Ward. In 1896, Bridget Driscoll was the first known pedestrian to have been killed in the UK.

It is estimated that 5 people are killed every day and many more seriously injured on UK roads, with more fatalities on UK roads in August than any other month.

Accidents on roads are not exclusive to drivers and their passengers but they also include cyclists and pedestrians. It is estimated that almost 500 pedestrians are killed every year and many more thousands are seriously injured.

The UK government continues to actively work to improve road safety and reduce the number of fatalities through campaigns, improved infrastructure and stricter enforcement of traffic laws.
An example of such work has seen the recent changes in the Highway code which observes a road hierarchy and places pedestrians as vulnerable road users who should have priority over vehicles.

However, some other developments such as the recent introduction of E-scooters can be said to be making roads even more dangerous.

Most Common Causes Of Road Accidents

Failing to look properly
Careless, reckless or in a hurry
Failing to judge the vehicle speed or direction of travel
Obstructed view of the road such as a stationary or parked vehicle

As a road traffic accident personal injury solicitor, I witness on a daily basis the devastating effects such accidents have on their victims, often causing life changing injuries which are not only distressing to the injured person but also for their loved ones.

How Can Timms Help?

If you have been injured in a road traffic accident, whether as a driver, passenger, pedestrian, or cyclist, Timms dedicated personal injury team can support you in making a compensation claim and help you access the right support and rehabilitation resources.

For further information, please contact the team on freephone 0800 011 6666 or via email at legal@timms-law.com.