FEARS have been raised country roads are being used like a ‘racetrack’ after more than 100 people were either killed or injured on routes across Worcestershire last year.
Figures from the Department for Transport revealed six people lost their lives and 99 were left seriously injured after travelling on the county’s rural roads in 2014.
The new data also revealed a total of 1,040 people were killed on country roads up and down the country, with more than 9,000 suffering significant injuries.
Almost 350 of the fatalities occured on a bend in the UK.
The figures have led the Government to launch a national campaign calling on drivers to slow down on such roads and brake before approaching a bend.
British Touring Car champion James Cole is one of several leading names to back the THINK! campaign as he was concerned people were taking the ‘racing line’ on bends.
“It’s one thing to do that in a racetrack environment but quite another to do it with no knowledge of what is around the corner,” he said.
“Take more care, anticipate hazards, stay in control and give yourself more time to react by braking before the bend, not on it.”
Road Safety Minister Andrew Jones added: “Every injury and death on our roads is a tragedy and that is why the new THINK! country road campaign is so important.
“We want the public to anticipate potential hazards on the road when driving in the countryside, to watch their speed and take care when approaching a bend.”
A spokeswoman from the Safer Roads Partnership said they were working to reduce collisions and casualties on all types of roads across Worcestershire.
“Activity includes targeted policing patrols on rural roads during the autumn harvest season; reminding farmers and contractors of their legal obligation to keep the roads clear of mud and debris, as well as raising awareness among general motorists of the presence of agricultural vehicles on the roads and encouraging them to show patience and take extra care,” she said.
With days getting darker sooner, the Safer Roads Partnership has a scheme, called ‘Be Safe Be Seen’, which urges road users to think about their visibility, while she said they were keen to educate drivers about weather conditions.
“We would encourage all road users to drive carefully and always drive to the conditions of the road you’re travelling on,” she added.
“Rural roads often have sharp corners and blind bends which can hide unexpected hazards. Stay in control and give yourself time to react.
“Even if you’re familiar with a country road, never take it for granted as the conditions can be different every time.”
