In Town ...
New research reveals over a third of people in Scotland (34 per cent) rush through town if they’re running late for work, with more than half (58 per cent) admitting to taking risks when travelling in built-up areas such as jumping amber lights (19 per cent) and travelling over the speed limit (19 per cent) in a bid to be ‘on time.’
One in 20 also admit to travelling on ‘autopilot’ every day and don’t pay full attention to their surroundings or other road users.
The findings of the survey by the Scottish Government and Road Safety Scotland (part of Transport Scotland) mark the launch of a new campaign with a clear message for all road users – In Town, Slow Down.
A number of organisations including Living Streets Scotland, Cycling Scotland and local authorities have backed the initiative to unite road users and create a greater sense of shared responsibility to help reduce the number of casualties on Scotland’s roads.
Minister for Transport and the Islands, Humza Yousaf said: “We are committed to achieving safer road travel in Scotland for everyone and it’s important drivers and riders travel at an appropriate speed for the environment and the conditions, especially in builtup areas where there are many vulnerable road users.
“Whether we drive, ride, cycle or walk, we all share the same road and our actions can have serious consequences. So don’t risk it - the message is simple, in town, slow down.”