In town? Then slow down . . .

ADVERTORIAL

New research shows that the majority of people in Scotland think a collision with a pedestrian at 30mph would not be fatal — yet pedestrians are seven times as likely to be killed if hit at 30mph than 20mph.

The findings of a survey by the Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland come on the back of an increase in the number of pedestrians being killed or seriously injured in Scotland, with 95 per cent of these injury accidents happening on built-up roads.

A new campaign In Town Slow Down launches this week, and encourages drivers to reduce their speed to allow time to respond to the busy environment of built-up areas and remind pedestrians and drivers to “look out” for each other.

Minister for transport and islands Derek Mackay said: “We are committed to achieving safer road travel in Scotland for everyone and this campaign reminds people of the importance of driving at an appropriate speed for the environment and the conditions in built up areas.

“We know the risks associated with speed, which is why Scotland’s Road Safety Framework to 2020 has identified speed as a key priority and includes a variety of measures to tackle the problem.

“Simple mistakes can have serious consequences for both drivers and pedestrians, which is why we’re reminding drivers – ‘In Town, Slow Down’.”

The survey also revealed that almost a third of drivers in Scotland admit to rushing through town if they are running late for work or a meeting, while 17 per cent think it’s okay to rush to pick the kids up on time.

Pedestrians questioned as part of the survey admit to taking risks while walking through town when in a rush.

Over half say they walk through stationary traffic, with over two-thirds of 17-24-year-olds doing this regularly.

For more information, log on to dontriskit.info or check out the Road Safety Scotland Facebook and Twitter (@roadsafetyscot) pages.