The Vision Zero principle has guided the development of the new West Sussex Road Safety Strategy, with the aim of achieving zero road deaths or serious injuries by 2050. The strategy builds on the Safe System approach, supported by the World Health Organisation, which focuses on managing vehicle speeds, improving road design, and using technology to identify and address risks. Key Features of the Strategy
- Managing vehicle speeds to reduce the impact of collisions
- Improving road design to reduce the severity of crashes
- Using technology to identify and address risks, including the use of cameras and data analytics
- Encouraging safer behaviour among all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists
Addressing the Impact of Covid-19 on Road Safety
The new strategy takes into account the significant changes in daily travel patterns brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic. Since the pandemic, there has been an increase in people working from home, leading to more frequent, shorter journeys throughout the day. This trend has resulted in an increased demand for safer walking and cycling routes, as well as a greater need for education and awareness about road safety. The Role of Education and Awareness
The strategy aims to increase awareness of road safety and provide training for road users who could cause the most harm. Through a combination of education, enforcement, and engineering, the council hopes to reduce collisions, save lives, and build a safer future for all road users. Key Partnerships and Collaborations
| Organisation | Role in the Strategy |
|---|---|
| West Sussex County Council | Led the development of the strategy, in partnership with local communities and experts |
| Local Communities | Provided feedback and input on the strategy, helping to ensure it meets the needs of all road users |
| Professional Organisations | Supported the development of the strategy, providing expert advice and guidance |
Technological Advances and Innovation
The new strategy builds on the latest technological advancements, including the use of cameras and data analytics to identify and address risks. By harnessing the power of technology, the council aims to reduce the impact of collisions and make roads safer for all road users. Expert Insights
“In today’s world, where technology has advanced significantly, it’s essential to ensure that our roads are designed with safety in mind. “We’re working closely with experts in the field to develop strategies that not only reduce the number of road deaths but also promote sustainable travel options. “At West Sussex County Council, we’re committed to making our roads safer for everyone, and we’re confident that our new strategy will achieve this goal.”
— Councillor Joy Dennis, Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport
The strategy also aims to encourage safer behaviour among all road users, including drivers, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. By combining education, engineering, and enforcement, the council hopes to reduce collisions, save lives, and build a safer future for all road users. The West Sussex Road Safety Strategy is designed to make roads safer for everyone and support more people in choosing sustainable travel options. By working together, we can achieve a future where all road users can travel safely and comfortably. Zero road deaths by 2050 is a goal that we should all strive for! It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the families, friends, and communities that will benefit from a safer road network. Let’s work together to make this vision a reality!
