Reported road casualties 2024: Progress made, challenges remain 

The Department for Transport’s 2024 Reported Road Casualties Great Britain annual report offers cautious optimism. Overall casualties are down 4% year-on-year, with 1,602 people tragically killed on our roads and 29,467 killed or seriously injured (KSI). 

While these reductions are welcome, the report highlights that road safety remains a complex and persistent challenge. Every number represents a person, a family, and a community whose lives have been altered forever. 

Motorcyclists remain at high risk 

The latest figures show that while many road user groups have seen reductions in fatalities, the picture for motorcyclists is more mixed. Fatalities in this group rose by 8% in 2024, and riders continue to represent a higher proportion of those killed or seriously injured compared with other groups. 

With our dedicated motorcycle team, we work closely with riders and their families and understand both the joy and the risks that come with motorcycling. These statistics underline the importance of continuing to invest in rider safety – from infrastructure improvements to training, awareness, and visibility on the roads – so that motorcyclists can be better protected in the future. 

Local lessons: Knowsley shows what’s possible 

Behind the national picture are important local stories. In Knowsley, Merseyside Police achieved a 50% reduction in KSI casualties since 2024. This progress shows what can be achieved when sustained focus, enforcement, and community collaboration come together. 

The role of charities and communities 

Alongside police and local authorities, charities such as RoadPeace and Aftermath provide vital support to victims and bereaved families. Their tireless advocacy keeps road safety on the agenda and ensures the voices of those most affected are heard. 

Our perspective 

Sarah Ouko, Associate from our Serious Injury Law team, said: 

“The latest KSI statistics remind us just how persistent and difficult the challenge of reducing serious road casualties remains. Every force is working hard under complex circumstances and the year-on-year picture shows how tough progress can be. That is why it’s so encouraging to see how Merseyside Police have achieved a 50% reduction in those killed or seriously injured in Knowsley, since 2024. 

“This demonstrates what can be achieved through sustained local focus and community collaboration and I want to acknowledge the vital contribution of charities like RoadPeace and Aftermath, whose hard work ensures victims and families are supported, whilst keeping road safety firmly on the agenda. Together forces, communities and partners must maintain momentum to stride towards safer roads.” 

We welcome the progress, but recognise there is much to do

At Fletchers Solicitors, we welcome the progress reflected in the report but recognise that too many lives are still lost or changed forever. We remain committed to supporting injured people and their families, campaigning for safer roads, and working with our partners to reduce casualties further.