Time for action on Powys roads says Williams

9.35.59am GMT Mon 2nd Nov 2009

Brecon and Radnorshire MP, Roger Williams, has today called for more to be done to prevent the large number of deaths or serious injuries suffered by young people and motorcyclists on Powys' roads.

His comments came as new statistics on the number of road accidents in Wales revealed that for the sixth year running more fatal or serious accidents happened in Powys than in any other area of the country. The figures also show that a staggering 11.4% of all motorbike accidents in Wales occur in Powys.

The statistics, which give details for the whole of last year, reveal that over one third of all accidents involved young people between the ages of 16 and 25. This is despite the Government introducing a more difficult theory test for new drivers in England and Wales in 2007.

Speaking today, Roger Williams said that there needed to be a more focused approach than simply making tests more difficult.

Mr Williams said:

"The tragedy of young people being killed on our roads cannot be solved simply by making driving tests more and more difficult. Instead the Government needs to ensure that transport policy takes into account the changing way in which our roads are used and work to make the roads, not just the drivers safer.

"Here in Powys we have some very difficult and complicated roads which even experienced drivers can find treacherous in poor conditions, these roads are even more dangerous for people on motorbikes. By examining some of the new technology available in terms of safety features I believe we could cut the number of not just young people, but of all road users who are killed or injured each year.

"However, we must continue to act in the short term by encouraging all young drivers to take the Pass-Plus course which can help them learn how to drive in more difficult areas with the help of an experienced and qualified professional.

"We must also continue to raise awareness of motorcyclist to other road users who are often unaware of the importance of checking their blind-spot in case there is a motorcycle behind them."

Notes:

Full details of the Transport Statistics for Wales can be found at:

http://wales.gov.uk/topics/statistics/publications/transport2009/?lang=en