FATAL traffic accidents involving cyclists, motorbikes and pedestrians increased this year, while the number of people killed in cars fell.
Government statistics published yesterday showed 3266 cyclists were killed or seriously injured across the UK between January and March. It compared with 3192 towards the end of 2011, causing concern among road accident campaigners.
Motorbike accidents saw an 8% increase to 5687 (5609 in late 2011) in those killed or seriously injured, while pedestrians were involved in 6% more of these accidents (6018 compared to 5907). However, there was a 4% reduction for car users from 9225 at the end of last year to 9137.
The Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) claimed the spike was linked to the Coalition's decision to cut investment in advertising campaigns and warned it could be the "start of a trend" following decades of improvements in road safety.
IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "It is unacceptable road deaths and serious injuries have risen for children, pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists. Cutting road safety education, scrapping casualty targets and cuts in council spending all suggest this isn't a major priority. The Government needs to show much greater leadership on road safety.
"Last year's increase in in the number of people killed was a serious warning, but this could be the start of a trend."
However, Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said road safety remained a "top priority" for the UK Government.
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