Department for Transport figures reveal that the number of children killed or injured crossing roads is almost five times higher in England's most deprived areas than in its wealthiest postcodes, a widening gap over the past decade.
Official analysis shows that in 2025, 29,918 people were reported killed or seriously injured on Great Britain's roads, 2,432 of whom were under 16. The total was 3% above the 2022-24 average, while fatalities fell 4% to 1,538.
Deprivation and road casualties
The DfT analysis of serious accidents in England found stark differences. More than 20% of child pedestrians killed or injured lived in the most deprived 10% of areas, compared with 4% in the least deprived. Strong links were found between casualties and deprivation for pedestrians and bus users, while for car occupants the difference was less stark despite higher mileage in wealthier postcodes, suggesting higher risk for deprived groups.
Motorcycle fatalities rise
Overall British figures showed fatalities among motorcycle users rose by 14%, from 325 deaths in 2024 to 372 last year, countering the falling death toll for car drivers. Speeding was a factor in 52% of recorded deaths, and more than three-quarters of those killed were male. Motorways remained the safest roads per mile, accounting for only 6% of fatalities despite carrying 21% of traffic.
Campaigners call for action
Rebecca Guy of the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents said: “It is particularly concerning that the gap between the most and least deprived areas has widened over the last decade.
“If the government is serious about reducing road deaths and serious injuries, tackling inequality must be at the heart of its approach.
“That means targeting investment and prevention efforts toward the communities at greatest risk, ensuring everyone has access to safe roads, safe infrastructure and safe journeys.”
A DfT spokesperson said: “Everyone should feel safe on our roads, no matter where they live.
“Our road safety strategy, the first in over a decade, recognises that people from deprived areas can face higher risks on the road. That’s why it aims to reduce deaths and serious injuries for all road users. We will keep track of the strategy’s impact, including how it affects people in more deprived areas to make sure measures are fair to all communities.”
