Statement on behalf of Road Safety Scotland on road casualty statistics published today

Michael McDonnell, Road Safety Scotland Director said:

“Road Safety Scotland remains a key partner in the delivery of the Road Safety Framework, and has delivered a number of education and awareness campaigns, including one encouraging motorcyclists to take extra care on left hand bends.

“Road safety is a lifelong learning process and safe journeys are what everyone should expect when they leave home each day, no matter what their mode of travel. For our young people this includes safe travel to and from school, and powers are now being devolved to allow legislation to ensure young people are safely buckled-up on these journeys.

“We have also developed a suite of resources for use in schools during the formative years, so that children and young people have access to high-quality road safety education. For example, we recently launched an app for 8-11 year-olds, and a new website for early secondary pupils which focuses on the issues which make them vulnerable on the road.

“In addition, we have developed a number of campaigns to change road user behaviour in relation to such things as in-car safety, driving on country roads and the influence parents have on their child’s future driving style. Ultimately, however, we need all road users to take ownership of their own safety and that of those with whom we share the roads daily – it’s everyone’s responsibility.”