Serious injuries from traffic accidents on the increase

Serious injuries from road accidents across County Durham have risen by almost a fifth on the previous year, new data reveals.

In 2017, 186 road users were seriously injured compared to 157 the previous year – a rise of 18%.

While the number of deaths dropped from 21 to 18 over the same period, the overall number of casualties – including those “slightly injured” – rose by 7%.

The figures were revealed to councillors this week at a meeting of Durham’s County Council’s Safer and Stronger Communities Overview and Scrutiny Committee.

Strategic traffic manager for the council, Dave Wafer, speaking at Durham County Hall on November 2, said rising numbers could be related to the way incidents are reported nationally.

“I don’t think we’re ever going to get to the bottom of whether it’s a reporting issue. If it is, (figures) should come down and go back on track,” he said.

Other traffic data for the county revealed a 38% increase in motorcycle users being seriously injured – from 24 in 2016 to 33 in 2017 – and figures for 17 to 24-year-olds rising by 17%t.

The number of casualties for people aged 70 plus also saw a 19% rise, jumping from 81 to 96 over the same period.

While early statistics for 2018 showed improvements in serious injuries, the traffic boss – who is also chairman of the County Durham Road Safety Partnership – said recent rises were a concern.