Eight countries reduce road deaths by more than half

UK reaches reduction figures better than the 43 per cent EU average

Eight countries have made reductions of more than 50 per cent in the number of deaths on their roads since 2001.

The eight countries are Latvia, Estonia, Lithuania, Spain, Luxembourg, Sweden, France and Slovenia.

The overall reduction in deaths amounts to over 100,000 deaths since 2001 and the benefits to society are estimated at €176bn.

Latvia and Estonia lead the way, having achieved 61 per cent reductions, while Lithuania achieved 58 per cent. They are followed by Spain with 55 per cent, Luxembourg with 54 per cent, France with 51 per cent, and Slovenia and Sweden both with 50 per cent.

Portugal, Ireland, Germany, the UK, Italy, Slovakia and Belgium have all achieved reduction figures better than the 43 per cent EU average.

Antonio Avenoso, ETSC1 Executive Directorn said: "Setting a common EU target for reducing the number of road deaths was a vital stimulus to reaching these impressive reductions."

"The overall EU target was not reached, but good progress has been made in all EU Member States. An ambitious target is key, this is why we supported the European Commission in setting the new 2020 target."

Further information:
European Transport Safety Council