The Highway Code, the British Government’s official guide to road safety, celebrated its 80th birthday last week.
The first edition of the Highway Code was published on 14 April 1931 in an effort to reduce the number of accidents occurring on British roads.
During that year more than 7,000 people were killed in road-related accidents, despite there being just 2.3 million cars on the road.
In 2009 more than 23 million vehicles were on the road, but the number of road deaths reported totaled just 2,222. This meant the UK had the lowest proportion of deaths per capita of all EU member states.
Road Safety Minister Mike Penning said: "The Highway Code has helped to save thousands of lives over the last 80 years, which is cause for celebration."
"The Code is not just for new drivers, it holds crucial information for everyone from experienced motorists and motorcyclists to horse riders and pedestrians."
"It’s long-standing success, and is one of the reasons why Britain’s roads are among the safest in the world."
Highway Code Turns 80
Mon, 18 Apr 2011
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