Every year, millions of people around the world are killed or injured in road traffic accidents. In fact, road traffic accidents are the leading cause of death for people aged 15-29 years old.
Key Facts:
- Every 1mph increase in speed, increases crash frequency by 5%
- 1 in 4 fatal crashes involve someone driving too fast.
- At 30mph a crash is twice as likely to cause severe injury than a crash at 20mph
We've all been there. We're running late, the traffic is backed up, and we just want to get to our destination. So, we put our foot down on the gas and start going a little faster than the speed limit. Maybe we're on a long open road and we feel like we can go a little faster without anyone noticing. But every time we drive faster than the speed limit, or too fast for the road conditions, we increase the risk of a crash. Every time we increase the risk of a crash, we increase the chance that someone will be killed or seriously injured on the road.
Each year, thousands of people are killed or seriously injured in speeding-related accidents. These accidents not only cause physical pain and suffering but also take a huge emotional toll on the families of the victims.
Every year, drivers who speed or travel too fast for the road conditions contribute to...
- 10,093 crashes
- 3,388 serious injuries
- 345 deaths
In 2021, under free-flowing traffic conditions, 51% of car drivers exceeded the speed limit on 30mph roads compared to 48% on motorways and 11% on national speed limit single carriageway roads. With these statistics in mind, it is clear that speeding has become an epidemic.
The SOE stands as a steadfast advocate for road safety, playing a crucial role in enhancing engineering practices and promoting a culture of safety within the engineering sector. Through its flagship initiatives such as irtec, SOE actively contributes to the reduction of road accidents and the promotion of safe driving habits.
Enhancing Professional Development for Road Safety.
SOE offers a comprehensive range of training courses and seminars specifically tailored to road safety professionals, covering topics such as road safety design principles, traffic management strategies, and accident investigation techniques. This commitment to continuing professional development (CPD) ensures that engineers remain at the forefront of road safety knowledge and practices, enabling them to make informed decisions that prioritize the safety of road users.
In addition to providing continuous CPDs SOE prides itself on being on the forefront of innovation. We regularly feature innovative solutions that are leading the wider engineering landscape.
Meet four technologies shaping the future of road safety:
StageCoach’s Intelligent Speed Assistance (ISA) technology:
SOE members were able to experience the technology firsthand. The ISA system uses the retarder in the engine transmission and engine braking to automatically slow down vehicles. This technology is a world-first and is expected to improve safety for both passengers and pedestrians.
Spillard’s vehicle safety systems:
Discover the latest advancements in vehicle safety technology with Spillard Vehicle Safety Systems and gain insights into the groundbreaking Driver Status Monitor, a revolutionary tool that detects driver fatigue before it becomes a hazard.
3D modelling for collision investigation:
Discover how this cutting-edge technology empowers investigators to unravel the mysteries behind road accidents, piecing together evidence with unprecedented precision. Explore the intricacies of 3D modelling, from capturing detailed scenes to generating lifelike simulations, and witness how it revolutionises the field of collision investigation.
Wabco’s advanced braking systems:
Explore global leader in vehicle safety and efficiency Wabco's range of innovations, including anti-lock braking systems (ABS), electronic braking systems (EBS), and electronic stability controls (ESC), which contribute to enhanced vehicle safety and efficiency.
Road Safety Week
Road Safety Week, organised by Brake, is an annual event dedicated to promoting road safety. Each year, countless schools, organisations, and communities unite to spread vital road safety information and honour those impacted by road-related fatalities and injuries.
This year, Road Safety Week takes place between November 19-25 with the theme being "Let's talk about speed." By talking about the dangers of speeding and the potential risk of life-changing road accidents we can encourage people to drive safely and potentially save a life.
How you can get involved:
Sign up for Road Safety Week 2023.
Share the message about road safety on social media using #RoadSafetyWeek
Talk to your friends, family and colleagues about the dangers of speed.
Together, we can make our roads safer for everyone.