ROAD deaths in Dorset rocketed by almost a third last year despite a fall in the number of fatalities across the UK.

The number of people killed leapt from 19 to 25 despite an eight per cent fall nationally.

The national figure was the lowest since records began in 1926 but in Dorset the tragic death toll shows no sign of slowing down.

There have already been 14 deaths in 2013 including that of headteacher Ali Mullany who died when her car was involved in a collision with a fire engine in April and Sophie Crew who lost her life when her car was in collision with a school coach at Horton earlier this month.

The 2012 deaths included those of motorcyclist David Bartholomew and friends Craig Jewell and Joshua Tate.

Four of the deaths took place in Bournemouth, four in Poole and the remainder in the Dorset County Council area.

Police have pledged to continue to target vulnerable road users with safety campaigns.
Inspector Matt Butler of Dorset police said: “There are a number of ways road users can make sure our roads are safer for all.

“Give yourself time to react.

“If you are distracted by a mobile phone or are driving too close or too fast, you don’t have time to react to an unexpected event.

“Take the time to look properly at junctions – don’t pull out until you know it is safe. If you have a drink, please, don’t drive.

“Showing patience and courtesy to other road users will make using the roads better for us.”

View the latest road casualties report from the Department of Transport here