According to the Department for Transport, the number of children killed or seriously injured crossing roads is almost five times higher in the most deprived postcodes than the wealthiest areas. The figures show a widening gap over the past 10 years in road casualties between those living in the poorest 10% of postcodes of England and the most affluent 10%. Campaigners are calling for targeted investment and prevention efforts to address the issue.
Child pedestrian deaths almost five times higher in England's worst-off areas
UKPulse Local DeskOfficial figures show a widening gap in road casualty rates between poor and wealthy postcodes, with the number of children killed or seriously injured crossing roads almost five times higher in the most deprived areas.
- The number of children killed or seriously injured crossing roads is almost five times higher in the most deprived postcodes than the wealthiest areas.
- The gap in road casualties between the poorest 10% and the most affluent 10% of postcodes in England has widened over the past 10 years.
- More than 20% of child pedestrians killed or seriously injured lived in the most deprived 10% of areas, compared with 4% living in the least deprived.
Why this matters: The widening gap in road casualty rates highlights the need for the government to address inequality and ensure that everyone has access to safe roads, infrastructure, and journeys.
What this means for you: If you live in a deprived area, you may be at a higher risk of being involved in a road accident, and it's essential to take extra precautions when crossing roads.