Claiming Injury compensation after a Serious Road Traffic Accident
Posted on 13th December 2023
Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a significant concern in the UK, often leading to serious injuries and even fatalities. Understanding the statistics of such accidents can be crucial for anyone involved in a traffic incident. This blog aims to provide a detailed overview of serious RTAs in the UK over the past decade, highlighting the importance of seeking professional legal assistance from MG Legal, the no-win-no-fee solicitors with offices in Preston, Lancaster, Lytham, Garstang, and Longridge.
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What is a Serious Road Traffic Accident?
A serious road traffic accident in the UK is typically defined as an incident on the road, or motorway, which results in severe injuries to the parties involved. These injuries are often life-altering and can include:
Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Serious fractures
Amputations
Significant burns or scarring
Why choose MG Legal's No Win No Fee Solicitors?
Transparent fees.
Our solicitors offer their services on a clear fixed-fee or hourly rate, and accept personal injury claims on a no win no fee basis.
We are the experts.
Here at MG Legal, our team of friendly solicitors are fully-qualified and have over thirty years' experience in helping clients just like you.
Regular communication.
When you work with MG Legal, your solicitor will be in regular contact so you have step-by-step updates.
Multiple office locations.
If you are looking to instruct our solicitors, we have offices in Garstang, Longridge, Lancaster, and Lytham for your convenience.
Statistics of Serious Road Traffic Accidents in the UK
Over the last 10 years, the landscape of road traffic accidents in the UK has evolved. Here's an overview of the statistics:
The trends in serious road traffic accidents (RTAs) in the UK over the past decade have shown some fluctuations, largely influenced by changes in traffic patterns and societal factors like the COVID-19 pandemic.
In 2020, the overall casualty rate in road accidents saw a small decrease compared to previous years. This was likely influenced by reduced road traffic due to pandemic restrictions. Interestingly, the fatality rates differed from the overall trend, with an increase of 5% compared to 2019. The seriously and slightly injured casualty rates decreased by 2% and 6%, respectively, according to gov.uk.
In 2021, there were approximately 27,450 killed or seriously injured (KSI) casualties, marking a 14% increase compared to 2020 but still 11% below the 2019 level. The total number of casualties of all severities was estimated at around 128,209, an 11% increase compared to 2020 and 16% below the 2019 level, again according to gov.uk.
By 2022, there was a slight decline in fatalities and KSI casualties compared to 2019. The statistics showed 1,711 fatalities (a 2% decline from 2019) and 29,742 KSI casualties (a 3% decline from 2019). The overall casualties of all severities also saw a decline of 12% compared to 2019, according to gov.uk.
In the year ending June 2023, the road casualties showed signs of returning to pre-pandemic trends, albeit still higher than in 2020 and 2021. The estimated figures were 1,633 fatalities (a 9% decline compared to the year ending June 2022), and 29,429 KSI casualties (a 1% decline compared to the year ending June 2022). See the statistics on gov.uk, here.
It's important to note that these statistics are influenced by various factors including changes in traffic volume, road safety measures, and societal behaviors such as the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The data also highlights the need for ongoing efforts in road safety and awareness to reduce the number of serious accidents and fatalities on UK roads.
Common Causes of serious road traffic accidents
The main causes of serious road traffic accidents in the UK, based on statistics from recent years, include a range of factors related to driver behaviour, vehicle conditions, and environmental aspects, including:
Driver/Rider Error or Reaction
This is the most common cause of car accidents in Great Britain. Specific errors include failing to look properly, misjudging other people's path or speed, careless or reckless driving, and being in a hurry. For instance, accidents caused by a driver or rider failing to look properly combined with failing to judge another person's path or speed accounted for approximately 4.7% of accidents.
Exceeding Speed Limit and Travelling too Fast for Conditions
Speeding is a significant contributory factor, accounting for 7.3% of accidents when the speed limit is exceeded and 6.1% when traveling too fast for the conditions.
Influence of Alcohol and Drugs
Driving under the influence of alcohol accounted for 6.3% of all car accidents in Great Britain in 2020, while impairment due to drugs (illicit or medicinal) was a factor in 2.6% of all accidents.
Vehicle Defects
Vehicle defects, such as defective or under-inflated tyres, defective brakes, and defective steering or suspension, were a cause in 2% of car accidents in 2020.
Environmental Factors
Weather conditions, including slippery roads due to weather, rain, sleet, snow, or fog, contributed to a significant number of accidents. For example, slippery roads due to weather were a factor in 7.7% of accidents in 2018.
Injudicious Actions
Actions like disobeying traffic signals, illegal turns, and following too closely also contribute to a significant number of accidents.
Road Environment Factors
Poor or defective road surfaces, inadequate or masked signs or road markings, and the layout of the road itself also play a role in accidents.
Who is impacted by Road Traffic Accidents?
The age groups most affected by serious road traffic accidents (RTAs) in the UK vary for different types of road users. Based on the statistics for 2022, the impact on different age groups for pedestrians, cyclists, car occupants, and motorcyclists is as follows:
Pedestrian Deaths / Serious Injuries
- Children (0-15 years): 17 deaths / 1,401 serious injuries
- Young people (16-24 years): 31 deaths / 744 serious injuries
- Adults (25-59 years): 165 deaths / 2,257 serious injuries
- Adults (60+ years): 172 deaths / 1,460 serious injuries
Cyclist Deaths / Serious Injuries
- Children (0-15 years): 4 deaths / 325 serious injuries
- Young people (16-24 years): 3 deaths / 526 serious injuries
- Adults (25-59 years): 45 deaths / 2,581 serious injuries
- Adults (60+ years): 39 deaths / 571 serious injuries
Car Occupant Deaths / Serious Injuries
- Children (0-15 years): 20 deaths / 452 serious injuries
- Young people (16-24 years): 182 deaths / 2,398 serious injuries
- Adults (25-59 years): 306 deaths / 5,261 serious injuries
- Adults (60+ years): 280 deaths / 2,520 serious injuries
Motorcyclist Occupant Deaths / Serious Injuries
- Children (0-15 years): 4 deaths / 88 serious injuries
- Young people (16-24 years): 63 deaths / 1,535 serious injuries
- Adults (25-59 years): 223 deaths / 3,320 serious injuries
- Adults (60+ years): 60 deaths / 635 serious injuries
These statistics suggest that the impact of serious RTAs varies significantly across different road user types and age groups. While older adults (60+ years) are notably affected in pedestrian accidents, young adults (16-24 years) are more affected in car and motorcycle accidents. It's important to note that these statistics represent only a snapshot and the risk factors can be influenced by various factors including road safety measures, public awareness, and societal behaviors.
The Impact of Serious Road Traffic Accidents
Serious road traffic accidents can have a profound impact on the lives of those involved. They can lead to:
- Long-Term Medical Treatment
- Financial Strain
- Emotional and Psychological Trauma
Why Choose MG Legal?
No Win No Fee Promise
You won't pay a penny upfront, and we only charge 20% of any damages received, when your no win no fee personal injury claim is successful
Expertise in Road Traffic Accidents
Our solicitors specialise in handling serious Road Traffic claims.
Local Presence
With offices across multiple locations, we're always close by to assist you.
Client-Focused Approach
We prioritise your needs and work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
How MG Legal Can Help You
Serious road traffic accidents can change lives forever. If you or a loved one has been affected, it’s important to know that you have support available. MG Legal's experienced team of no-win-no-fee solicitors is here to help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
If you're in need of legal assistance following a serious road traffic accident, don't hesitate to contact MG Legal. Visit our offices in Preston, Lancaster, Lytham, Garstang, and Longridge, or reach out to us through our website or over the 'phone.
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