According to the latest statistics published by the Department of Transport, pedestrian deaths on British roads increased by 8.7% in 2022. 

The latest RAC data has also highlighted that 50% of drivers still feel unsure if the most recent Highway Code changes have made roads safer for pedestrians. 

Leading personal injury specialists, The Compensation Experts have analysed extensive Department of Transport datasets between 2018 and 2022 to reveal the most dangerous locations across the UK for pedestrians, based on total casualties within each location.  

According to the in-depth government data analysis, the following 10 UK towns and cities recorded the highest number of pedestrian accidents per head of population:

The most dangerous locations for pedestrians across the UK, based on an analysis of British pedestrian injuries between 2018–2022 per head of population 

In the last five years, the number of pedestrians involved in road traffic accidents has fallen in Nottingham, Birmingham, Greater London, and Brighton and Hove. However, in Blackpool and the four West Yorkshire areas (Bradford, Calderdale, Kirklees, and Leeds), the opposite has happened.

The report analysis also reveals that the most dangerous type of road for pedestrians are urban streets, where 88% of deaths occur. Most accidents occur within 20 metres of a junction, where pedestrians often find it difficult to gauge the speed and direction of oncoming traffic. 

The peak time for road traffic accidents involving pedestrians is between 3pm and 6pm on weekdays and slightly later at the weekend. The data shows that male pedestrians, particularly boys and men aged 30–39, are more likely to be involved in traffic accidents than female pedestrians. The only exception to this is women over the age of 70. Proportionately, more pedestrians are killed by HGVs and in accidents involving three or more vehicles.

The Compensation Experts have analysed the latest Department of Transport pedestrian casualties data to identify the UK cities which are most affected and to understand the leading factors for pedestrian accidents, including peak times and vehicle types. 

Alex Kenny, CEO of The Compensation Experts, said:  “Our analysis of the Department of Transport statistics highlights just how vulnerable pedestrians can be on our roads. In particular, it is concerning that pedestrian collisions appear to be on the rise for a number of urban locations – and that the most recent Highway Code changes don’t appear to have made our roads any safer for pedestrians.

“Working alongside our partner law firms, we support government investments into ensuring a safer road network for vulnerable road users. Investment is important, because when roads and pavements are not maintained, there is a risk of injury – which only intensifies the longer a defect is allowed to develop. Potholes can be responsible for a multitude of injuries, as can poorly maintained ‘street furniture’ – like bollards, public fencing and manhole covers.

“Negligent drivers also pose a risk to vulnerable road users. Pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists are much more at risk of injury than those in cars, or vans, so it is hugely important that drivers keep ahead of changes to the Highway Code, pay attention to their surroundings and drive with caution at all times.”

If you have been involved in a road traffic accident as a pedestrian and it wasn’t completely your fault, you may be entitled to compensation and The Compensation Experts work with a hand-selected panel of law firms that specialise in personal injury claims.