In response to the swiftly unfolding COVID-19 situation, SMMT has this week moved to working remotely, following government advice in practicing social distancing. The wellbeing of our members, associates and employees remains our utmost priority, as well as ensuring business continuity and securing critical support for all UK automotive companies and their workforces during this very challenging and unsettling time.
And yet, in many other respects, SMMT business continues as usual. One of the areas that requires continuous effort is improving road safety.
Over the past 30 years, the UK has had a good record of reducing casualties. Latest figures rank the UK second in the EU for road safety (after Sweden), with 1,793 reported fatalities in 2017 – some 39% lower than a decade earlier.
The government has a number of programmes in this area with the main focus being on young and older vulnerable road users, rural road users and motorcyclists. SMMT works closely with government on this issue, particularly in the commercial vehicle sector. We also support Driving for Better Business, a government-backed Highways England programme to help employers reduce work-related road risk and improve compliance with current legislation and guidance. You can find out more about this and how to get involved here.
