7 Aug 2024
The Importance Of National Road Victim Awareness Month
Every August, the UK observes National Road Victim Awareness Month, a time dedicated to remembering those who have lost their lives or been injured on the nation’s roads.
This month-long event is an essential part of raising awareness about road safety and the devastating impact of road accidents, and through a thorough understanding of its origins, significance, and ways to contribute, can help to foster a safer driving environment for everyone.
How did National Road Victim Awareness Month begin?
National Road Victim Awareness Month was initiated by the charity RoadPeace in 1998, which was originally founded in 1992 by Brigitte Chaudhry following the tragic death of her son in a road accident.
With the National Road Victim Awareness Month campaign, the charity aims to provide support to road crash victims and their families, whilst also advocating for road safety and justice.
But the choice of August is also poignant too, as historically, it is the month with the highest number of road fatalities. In fact, several significant road traffic incidents have occurred in August, including the Princess Diana car crash in 1997, which brought international attention to the issue.
As a result, by choosing this month, RoadPeace seeks to underline the importance of road safety and honour the memories of those affected by road tragedies.
Why is National Road Victim Awareness Month important?
National Road Victim Awareness Month is crucial for several reasons:
- Remembrance: by providing an opportunity to remember and honour those who have lost their lives or been injured in road accidents. This remembrance is vital for the families and friends of victims, offering them a sense of solidarity and support
- Awareness and education: as the entire month serves as a platform to educate the public about road safety issues, highlighting the statistics and stories behind road accidents and raising awareness about the need for safer driving practices
- Advocacy for change: as the campaign brings attention to the need for better road safety measures and policies, and this advocacy can lead to legislative changes, improved road designs and enhanced enforcement of traffic laws
- And support for victims: as most importantly, it underscores the importance of supporting road crash victims and their families, particularly as support can come in various forms such as wellbeing, financial and legal assistance
Why is National Road Victim Awareness Month in August?
August is statistically one of the most dangerous months on the roads in the UK, and increased travel during the summer holidays can contribute to a higher incidence of road accidents, according to latest figures for the UK Department for Transport's Reported Road Casualties in Great Britain: Annual Report 2023.
What’s more, research from the RAC Foundation highlights that driving during the warmer weather, especially in August, can indeed lead to an increase in risky driving behaviours such as speeding and driving under the influence of alcohol. The study further highlights that drivers may feel more relaxed and inclined to take risks in warmer weather, and points out that August often sees an increase in social activities involving alcohol, which can contribute to a rise in drink-driving incidents compared to other months.
As a result, by focusing on August, National Road Victim Awareness Month capitalises on a period when the issue is most pressing, urging drivers to be more cautious and considerate.
How can all road users be vigilant?
Vigilance on the road is vital in reducing accidents, and there are several ways everyone can contribute, including:
- Adhering to speed limits: speeding is a leading cause of road accidents, based on data from RoSPA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents) highlight that speeding contributes to around 24% of all fatal collisions in the UK. As a result, it is always important to observe speed limits and adjust your speed according to road conditions
- Avoiding distractions: distracted driving, such as using a mobile phone, is extremely dangerous, so drivers must always focus entirely on the road and their surroundings
- Drive sober: it’s illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, so if drivers are planning to drink, it is essential to arrange for alternative transportation
- Wear seatbelts: the fact is that seatbelts do save lives, so ensuring that both driver and all passengers are wearing seatbelts at all times is crucial
- And be extra aware of vulnerable road users: this includes looking out for pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists as they are more vulnerable in traffic and require extra consideration
How can we all make a difference?
Making a difference during National Road Victim Awareness Month goes beyond personal vigilance. Some ways in which anyone at all can contribute is to help by:
- Spreading awareness: by using tools such as social media, blogs and community platforms to share information about road safety and the importance of National Road Victim Awareness Month
- Participating in events: as many organisations host events such as memorial walks, candlelight vigils and educational workshops
- Supporting road safety charities: by donating to or volunteering with charities such as RoadPeace, everyone’s contribution can help support victims and advocate for safer roads
- Advocating for change: by engaging with local authorities to push for better road safety measures. This could include campaigning for more pedestrian crossings, improved road signs or even stricter enforcement of traffic laws
- And finally, educating others: if you are in a position to do so, educating others about safe driving practices, whether that be through formal driver education courses or informal discussions with family and friends, can make all the difference
National Road Victim Awareness Month is a crucial observance that highlights the importance of road safety and supports those affected by road accidents, and at Speed Medical, we believe that by remembering victims, raising awareness and advocating for change, everyone can contribute to making the roads safer for all.
This August, let us honour the memories of those lost and take meaningful steps towards preventing further tragedies on our roads, and as we do so, our commitment to helping those in need following road accidents remains strong.
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