Startling new research has exposed a profound crisis of confidence on the streets of Birmingham, with half of the city's residents reporting they do not feel safe using local roads.
Worsening Perceptions of Danger
A comprehensive survey conducted by law firm Slater and Gordon reveals that 49 per cent of people in Birmingham feel unsafe on roads in their local area. The situation is perceived to be deteriorating, as 58 per cent of respondents believe the city's roads have become more dangerous over the past 12 months.
The study, released to coincide with Road Safety Week (November 16-22), identifies the physical state of the infrastructure as a primary cause for concern. A significant majority—over 60 per cent—blamed poor road conditions, including potholes, narrow lanes, and persistent roadworks, for their unease.
Dangerous Driving and Vehicle Maintenance Concerns
The behaviour of other road users is also a major factor fuelling anxiety. The research found that almost 80 per cent of people witness dangerous driving at least once a week, with a troubling 23 per cent stating they see it several times a day.
This year's Road Safety Week campaign focuses on the importance of safe vehicles, a theme echoed in the survey results. More than half of those surveyed (56 per cent) believe that cost of living pressures are causing drivers to cut corners on vehicle maintenance. Nearly 30 per cent of respondents admitted to doing this themselves.
Impact on Active Travel and Calls for Responsibility
The perceived danger is having a direct impact on how people choose to get around. The research uncovered a latent demand for more active travel, with 46 per cent of people saying they would cycle or walk more often if they felt the roads were safer.
Matthew Tomlinson, Head of Serious Injury (North) at Slater and Gordon, commented on the worrying statistics. He stated that the combination of dangerous driving and poor road conditions is "threatening the safety of all road users."
"We all have a responsibility to make the roads as safe as possible, which includes our own behaviours," Mr Tomlinson said. He emphasised the need for drivers to operate their vehicles in a "safe and appropriate manner" and to "take responsibility for the condition of our cars" to protect fellow drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians.
