Vulnerable Road Users
What is a Vulnerable road user?
Vulnerable road user means pedestrians, cyclists, motorcyclists and horse-riders. It refers to anyone using roads without a vehicle around them offering protection. If someone in a vehicle is in a collision, they have the frame of the vehicle, and often other features like airbags and crumple zones, to help absorb the force of the crash and provide protection. If a vulnerable road user is in a collision, they are exposed to the full force of the impact. Because of the vulnerability of these road users, drivers should do everything they can to ensure they are not putting them in danger. There are more than 35 million vehicles registered in the UK. While the number of vehicles has increased significantly, levels of walking and cycling have decreased, despite the benefits for health, the environment and social development, particularly among children. Research suggests one of the reasons behind decreasing walking and cycling is fear of the traffic. This creates a vicious circle, with more people driving to avoid the dangers, leading to more vehicles on the roads, leading to an even greater threat to people on foot and bicycle. In 2005 there were 3,356 deaths and 30,027 serious injuries on UK roads. Of theses 1435 deaths and 14,964 serious injuries were among vulnerable road users. That’s 45 deaths and serious injuries per day. Extent of the problem
Vulnerable Pedestrians
More than 60 child pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every week. Children often misjudge the speed and intentions of drivers. They are easily distracted, and may dash into the road without looking. Nearly half of all pedestrians killed are aged over 60. Older people may have difficulties in seeing or hearing approaching traffic, and may have decreased mobility.
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