The outcome of the discussion hosted by Reno Bugeja on Dissett about road safety has highlighted some of the reasons why traffic management is in such a sorry state.

• Non-uniformity of policy

• Unreliable statistics

• Conflict of interest

Uniformity of regulations is a must for roads of the same geography in order to avoid confusion. Changing of the speed limits has to be approved on the basis of reliable data, especially if it was in force for a number of years.

Signage has to be installed in prominent places and has to be visible at all hours and maintained throughout the year. Traffic calming devices have to be in conformity to the local Highway Code and if amendments are necessary these have to be sanctioned through the proper channels.

For instance, it is evident that the local council road management is based on the individual requirement of the local populace.

Several traffic calming devices are installed, with good intention, but without the proper specifications. Traffic calming devices on their own are not sufficient to render safe journey to all road users.

As evident, the data provided by the ADT was of insufficient information and the method used in conflict to the desired result. In order to prepare and maintain an efficient safety programme a comprehensive traffic database is an indispensible tool and as such it has to be updated rigorously. A source for such information is available from the UK Department of Traffic: Road Causality Great Britain: 2007 Report.

Obviously the public in general is receptive to solutions which will make the road journey safer. If the safety measures are well thought out and technically sound, then success is assured.

Therefore all the stakeholders concerned have to be actively involved to achieve the best practical solution while those who might have a conflict of interest will be present as non-voting members.

Interesting pointers from the UK DfT report 2007 as to the most contributory factors to accidents are: Driver error or reaction - 68 per cent; travelling too fast for conditions, following too close and exceeding speed limit - 25 per cent, and for fatal accidents loss of control at 31 per cent. Therefore the authorities must treat road safety in a holistic manner rather than coming up with piecemeal solutions.

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