Investment in car, van and truck safety has helped drive down road casualties, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders.

The latest statistics from the Department for Transport reveal improvement in all areas particularly a year-on-year reduction in pedestrian casualties, 7% down to 31,020 and child casualties down 10% to 10,140.

“We should welcome the news that UK roads are safer and highlight the progress we as an industry have made,” said SMMT chief executive Christopher Macgowan.

“Nevertheless, we must not be complacent: behind the statistics lie events that devastate lives and the motor industry is committed to continue to deliver safer cars, vans and trucks,” he added.

The report can be accessed from the DfT web site here.