Avoiding Autumn's Road Risks: A Message from Rebecca Guy
As the clocks go back and the evenings get darker, I want to share a few thoughts on something that’s been weighing on my mind – road safety during autumn. Every October, we see a worrying spike in road casualties. In both 2023 and 2024, over 2,500 people were killed or seriously injured each October on Great Britain’s roads.
That’s not just a number – it’s lives changed forever.
Halloween is a particularly risky time, especially between 5pm and 8pm when children are out trick-or-treating. Reduced visibility and busy residential streets make it a perfect storm for crashes. I’m urging drivers to slow down, stay alert, and make themselves visible. And if you’re out walking – especially with little ones – wear something bright or reflective and take extra care when crossing roads.
The fact that these numbers haven’t really changed year-on-year tells me we need to do more. That’s why RoSPA is calling on the government to finally publish the National Road Safety Strategy for England. We need to empower local authorities to introduce lower speed limits where they are most needed, and to establish a Road Safety Investigation Branch to learn from serious collisions.
But while we push for national change, there’s a lot each of us can do right now to reduce the risks on our roads. So, if you’re behind the wheel this autumn, here are a few tips to help keep everyone safe:
- Slow down in residential areas, especially during school runs and Halloween.
- Keep your windscreen clean and check your lights regularly – visibility is essential.
- Watch out for pedestrians, especially children who may be excited and behave in unpredictable ways.
- Avoid distractions – put your phone away and stay focused.
- Drive to the conditions – wet leaves, fog, and less daylight mean you will need to adjust your driving.
This isn’t just about policy – it’s about people. A few simple precautions can make a huge difference. Together, we can make this autumn safer for everyone on the road.