25 September 2025

Figures released today by the Department for Transport* shows that 1,602 people were killed on Britain’s roads last year.

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy at The AA, says; “Every death and serious injury on our roads is a tragedy. Sadly, the figures show that little to no improvement to reduce the number of people injured on our roads, and highlights the urgent need for a comprehensive road safety strategy.

“Motorcyclist fatalities rose by 8% in a year, while pedestrian deaths increased by 1%. More needs to be done to help protect vulnerable road users to ensure they get to their destinations safely**.”

“More needs to be done to help protect vulnerable road users to ensure they get to their destinations safely.”

Young drivers and passengers

The figures also show that fatal and serious injuries for young drivers and their passengers remain disproportionately high when compared to other drivers***.

The 2024 Young Driver Factsheet says;

‘In 2024, passenger casualties accounted for 21% of all KSI casualties from a collision involving at least one younger car driver. By comparison, for collisions involving other aged car drivers, passenger KSI casualties accounted for 14% of all KSI casualties in 2024.’

Rural roads remain a particular risk for young drivers, with 49% killed or seriously injured on them, compared to 42% for other drivers. One in six (17%) of younger drivers involved in a serious crash were not wearing their seatbelt, compared to 6% for those aged 50 and above.

Cousens continues; “These figures highlight the continued concern about young, novice drivers and their passengers. Implementing certain changes, such as limiting new drivers under the age of 21 from carrying peer aged passengers for a short term of six months after passing their test could save lives.”

* Reported road casualties Great Britain, annual report: 2024 - GOV.UK

** AA Trust Think Bikes 10th Anniversary | AA

*** Reported road casualties in Great Britain: younger driver factsheet, 2024 - GOV.UK