Local authorities cite inadequate data as a barrier to road safety

A survey of 200 managers in government shows that more than a third (36 percent) of local authorities are relying on out-of-date data to assess the success of road safety schemes.

When it comes to existing data used to assess the success of road safety schemes and infrastructure, 45 percent of respondents reported a lack of accurate and quality KSI (Killed or Seriously Injured) data. Similarly, 39 percent also pointed to the absence of proven methodologies or processes as a barrier to effective road safety planning.

The problem is second only to a lack of funding as a major barrier to effective road safety planning and measurement, says the research by VivaCity.

When asked which road users they prioritise when it comes to road safety – ranking motor vehicles, buses, cyclists, pedestrians and e-scooters from ‘most important’ to ‘least important’ – a mere six percent of local authorities consider cyclists as the most important road users.

On top of this, e-scooters were selected as ‘least important’ the most, with more than half (51 percent) of respondents rating them their last choice when it comes to prioritising road safety.  On the other hand, the results revealed that pedestrians are a top priority for local authorities and councils, with over half (55 percent) prioritising them over other transport modes.

“These findings highlight critical gaps in road safety prioritisation and resource allocation,” said Mark Nicholson, CEO at VivaCity. “Focusing on the safety of all types of vulnerable road users including cyclists and pedestrians is key to boosting active travel.

“There is an urgent need for local authorities to reevaluate their existing data to ensure that they have access to accurate analysis on the success of road safety schemes so that we can create safer and more sustainable towns and cities.”