Road Safety Week 2024

Every year more than 1700 people die on UK roads with another 30,000 receiving serious, life-changing injuries. These harrowing statistics serve as a stark reminder of the dangers on our roads and highlight the importance of road safety awareness. From the 17th to 23^rd November, Road Safety Week 2024, led by the charity Brake, aims to turn these statistics into impactful action, inspiring communities across the UK to champion for safer roads. This year’s campaign is focused on highlighting the real cost of road crashes, honouring road victims, and supporting their families.

In this blog, we’ll explore what Road Safety Week entails, why it’s such a crucial initiative, and what steps we can all take to promote safer driving.

What is Road Safety Week?

Organised by Brake, a leading UK road safety charity, Road Safety Week is the biggest road safety campaign of the year. Every November, thousands of schools, businesses, and communities join to raise awareness and advocate for safer roads. Through education, activities, and social media, participants strive to reduce road crashes and their devastating consequences. Brake provides participants with a toolkit to help spread the word, engage local communities, and encourage policy makers to act.

This year, Brake is putting a special focus on road victims, aiming to make the voices of those affected by road crashes heard across the country. As Brake’s CEO, Ross Moorlock, explains:

“We are raising awareness of the devastating impact of road crashes on families, friends, and across communities. We’re revealing the stories behind the numbers and calling for the very highest standard of care for every road victim. Because after the crash, every road victim counts.”

The Reality of Road Crashes in the UK

To appreciate the full impact of road crashes, it’s essential to understand the statistics:

These numbers represent lives lost, families shattered, and communities mourning the untimely loss of loved ones. Brake’s efforts remind us that these numbers are not just statistics but real people whose lives have been tragically cut short or permanently altered.

What Brake Do

Brake is a national charity dedicated to preventing road crashes and supporting those affected. Their free National Road Victim Service (NRVS) provides trauma-informed, professional support to thousands of families every year, helping them navigate the challenges that arise after a road crash. This service includes emotional support, legal guidance, and practical advice, tailored to the specific needs of road victims and their families.

Brake’s mission is to highlight the urgent need for comprehensive road safety policies and sustainable funding to provide ongoing support to road victims across the UK. They call upon government officials to create and enforce policies that prioritise road safety for all, regardless of circumstances.

Why Road Safety Week Matters

Road Safety Week is a call to action for everyone – from drivers and pedestrians to policymakers and emergency responders. Here are just a few reasons why this campaign is essential:

• Raising Awareness: Road Safety Week shines a light on the tragic consequences of road crashes and reminds drivers to make safer choices on the road.
• Community Involvement: By engaging schools, local businesses, and families, the campaign fosters a culture of safety and accountability.
• Advocating for Change: Brake uses Road Safety Week to call on the government for sustainable funding and a dedicated road safety strategy.
• Supporting Victims: Through fundraising and awareness, the campaign enables Brake to continue providing vital support to road victims and their families.

Tips for Safer Roads

In support of Road Safety Week, here are some steps everyone can take to help make our roads safer:

1. Avoid Distractions: Avoid using mobile phones or other distractions while driving.
2. Follow Speed Limits: Speeding is a major factor in road fatalities. Sticking to speed limits, especially in residential areas, can prevent accidents.
3. Stay Sober: Avoid alcohol and drugs before driving, as even small amounts can impair reaction times.
4. Be Cautious in Poor Weather: Wet or icy roads reduce traction and visibility, so drive cautiously in adverse conditions.
5. Ensure Child Safety: Always use age-appropriate car seats and seat belts for children.
6. Keep a Safe Distance: Tailgating reduces your reaction time, increasing the risk of collision if the vehicle in front stops suddenly.

Find out more about defensive driving techniques and other ways of driving to avoid road traffic accidents.

Our Road Safety Heroes

An important part of Road Safety Week is acknowledging the incredible work of those who support road victims. These “road safety heroes” include:

• Emergency Services: Police, ambulance, and fire crews provide life-saving support at crash scenes.
• Medical Staff: Doctors, nurses, and rehabilitation specialists help crash victims recover and regain independence.
• Legal and Support Services: Family liaison officers, solicitors, and other support workers assist victims’ families through the legal aftermath and recovery processes.

Brake celebrates these heroes for their essential role in helping victims and their families rebuild their lives.

Conclusion

Road Safety Week 2024 is an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in our communities. By participating, we honour road victims and advocate for better safety measures to prevent further loss. Brake’s Road Safety Week reminds us of all that road crashes affect not only those involved directly but also families, friends, and entire communities. Let’s come together to make our roads safer for everyone, now and in the future.

For more information or to get involved in Road Safety Week 2024, visit Brake’s website at www.brake.org.uk/RoadSafetyWeek and download the action pack. Join the movement, support safer roads, and help reduce the human cost of road crashes.