Pedestrians involved in more crashes in autumn
As the nights get darker earlier, Road Safety GB North East (RSGB NE) is appealing for all road users to slow down and to look out for each other during the coming weeks.
Drivers are urged to cut their speed around schools, playgrounds, shopping centres and pubs, while people on foot are being reminded to use pedestrian crossings wherever possible, not to take chances and to wear bright clothes in order to be seen.
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Hide AdThe North East’s 12 local-authority road-safety officers work with the region’s schools throughout the year to advise children how to stay safe on the roads.
Their advice is never more relevant than now, with November and December typically seeing the greatest number of pedestrian casualties.
Almost a third of pedestrian accidents happen between October and December, with 7am to 9am and 3pm to 6pm the most prevalent times of day.
Children account for a high percentage of the casualties, with boys aged between 11 and 12 the most likely age group to be injured.
From 2011 to 2015, there were a total of 458 pedestrian casualties in Northumberland, 14 of which were fatal.