Transport for London has released new data that shows a significant reduction in the number of collisions since the implementation of 20mph speed limits on key roads in London. Vulnerable road users continue to be most at risk on London’s roads, but since the 20mph speed limits have been introduced, collisions involving vulnerable road users have decreased by 36% (from 453 to 290), while collisions involving people walking have decreased by 63% (from 124 to 46).

Also, the number of vehicle collisions has reduced by 25% (from 406 to 304), and collisions resulting in death or serious injury have reduced by 25% (from 94 to 71), demonstrating the huge impact of lowering speeds across London.

In March 2020, London introduced a 20mph speed limit on all its roads within central London as part of its Vision Zero commitment to eliminate death and serious injury on the capital’s roads by 2041.

Currently over half of London’s roads have a 20mph speed limit, and the proposals are likely to expand further.

Collision data from around the world shows that the speed at which people are driving or riding is the single most important factor in whether a collision takes place and how severely people are injured. In 2020, speed was a contributing factor to 48% of fatal collisions.

The new speed limits have also made a large portion of London safer for people to live, work and commute, encouraging more Londoners out of their cars to walk, cycle and use public transport. More people now use healthier and more sustainable forms of travel which is vital to reducing congestion and air pollution.

For more information, see:
https://www.traffictechnologytoday.com/news/safety/londons-20mph-zones-reduce-collisions-with-pedestrians-by-63.html