Fourteen fewer people killed on the roads

The number of people being killed and injured on the region’s roads is falling.

Thirty five people were killed last year compared to 49 in 2012 – 14 fewer victims and a reduction of 29 per cent.

Speed, drink and drugs and failure to look properly were the biggest contributors to fatal collisions in 2013 and pedestrians, motorcycle riders and drivers were the most vulnerable.

The number of people who were injured on the roads also fell with serious injuries reducing by 4 per cent and slight injuries by 11 per cent.

Greater Manchester Police launched Operation Dice in 2012 following a huge rise of in people killed on the region’s roads in 2011.

Since then the number of deaths on the road has continued to fall but road safety remains a priority for police.

Chief Inspector Rachel Buckle from the Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “While it is pleasing to see that less people are being killed on our roads, 35 people still lost their life last year and this is 35 too many.

“Losing a loved one is terrible no matter what but to lose somebody so suddenly and tragically in a road accident can be difficult for families to ever get over. It is for this reason that our officers have been working tirelessly to make the roads safer so that ultimately we can save more lives.

“Many accidents could be avoided if people took more care and responsibility – simple decisions can literally make the difference between life and death so slow down, give the road your full attention and never get in a car after drinking.”

Karen Delaney, spokesperson for Drivesafe said ‘Driver behaviour and attitude is a constant contribution towards these collisions but all road users should be encouraged to be more responsible for their actions.

“Drivesafe will continue to introduce road safety interventions, including education and training through the Greater Manchester National Driver Intervention Scheme and local delivery projects, publicity information and campaigns, and enforcement through safety cameras and policing.”