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Speed cameras helping to reduce road crash ‘misery’





The average number of people killed or seriously injured at safety camera sites has been reduced.
The average number of people killed or seriously injured at safety camera sites has been reduced.

THE number of people killed or seriously injured at road safety camera sites has fallen by 63 per cent.

The figures are highlighted in the Key Scottish Safety Camera Programme Statistics 2010 report issued by Scotland’s chief statistician today (Wednesday).

It shows the average number of people killed or seriously injured at safety camera sites between 2008 and last year is 63 per cent lower than the three-year baseline averages recorded since the start of the programme.

In comparison, the number of people killed or seriously injured on all of Scotland’s roads between 2008 and 2010 is 44 per cent lower than the 1997 to 1999 average.

Campaigners argue this shows cameras are an effective road safety tool, helping to reduce deaths and injuries.

The estimated average cost of a serious accident is over £208,000, while that of a fatal crash is £1.8 million.

Northern Safety Camera Partnership manger Dougie Bennion has welcomed the figures.

He said: "This statistical bulletin shows that our partnership approach of government, police and roads authorities is delivering the benefits of safety cameras by helping to save lives and by reducing the financial impact of road collisions on the Scottish economy.

"Safety cameras are funded through a grant from the Scottish Government in the interests of making communities stronger and safer by deterring speeding and red-light running."

Kathleen Braidwood, ROSPA road safety officer, added: "With an average of 10 fewer accidents involving injuries every week at safety camera sites, it is clear that cameras are helping to reduce the misery caused by crashes across Scotland. The use of cameras is part of a comprehensive strategy to prevent speed-related accidents across Scotland, involving many partners and a variety of approaches."


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