The report found that, in 2022, fatalities on roads rose back up to pre-pandemic levels with rural road deaths accounting for almost two thirds of all fatalities on roads – a total of 1,017.
Despite more incidents happening in urban areas, the fatality rates on rural roads is strikingly higher at 1 for every 31 accidents, compared to 1 for every 120 on urban roads.
When respondents were asked what their biggest rural road safety concerns were:
- 25% identified loose livestock or animals.
- 25% found vehicles, or slow-moving traffic were a concern.
- 28% cited mud and debris.
- 50% cited the impatience of drivers.
Blind corners, narrow or winding roads, and poor road quality topped the list of concerns overall.
The report also identified an upward trend in fatalities involving horses and their riders, finding them to be ‘significantly at risk on rural roads’. According to the latest figures from the BHS (British Horse Society), 69 horses were killed on the roads and 139 riders were injured in 2022, a 21% increase from 2021.
Key resources
- See the Highway Code: Rule 58 for animals being herded along roads.
- See the Highway Code: Rule 169 for slow-moving vehicles.
- Read the NFU's guide on mud on the roads.
NFU Mutual has said its new code will include feedback and advice from expert groups with the overall aim of ‘providing a clear guide on how people should use the roads’.
Feedback can be submitted at: NFUMutual.co.uk | Rural Road Safety Feedback Form.
‘Every road death is one too many’
Launching the report, NFU Mutual Chief Executive Nick Turner said: “Rural roads are not only the arteries of the rural economy, but also the gateway to our countryside and a source of enjoyment for millions.
“Sadly, our analysis shows that, after a few years of decreasing fatalities, rural roads are becoming more deadly again.
“Over 1,000 people lost their lives on rural roads last year, with thousands more injured. Every road death is one too many, and we believe serious conversations need to happen to make rural roads safer for everyone.”
“This report serves as a vital reminder, and we urge both farmers and the public to prioritise their safety while driving on public roads in the countryside.”
NFU Vice President David Exwood
NFU Vice President David Exwood said the NFU “fully supports NFU Mutual’s call for farmers to stay safe on rural roads, as highlighted in their 2023 Rural Road Safety Report”.
He added: “This report serves as a vital reminder, and we urge both farmers and the public to prioritise their safety while driving on public roads in the countryside.”
