6 fatal road deaths in Rotherham in a year with another 149 left seriously hurt
A report shows school road safety concerns as serious incidents rise
New Department for Transport data reveals Rotherham had 155 serious or fatal road casualties in 2024, with six people losing their lives.
The stats have prompted Rotherham Council to address school road safety issues, highlighting concerns about the safety of children and families during school runs.
The council's report identifies several problems schools are worried about, such as dangerous parking, late arrivals creating unsafe crossing conditions, and the risk of children getting injured by cars.
Councillors involved in the review flagged problems like illegal parking, traffic congestion at pick-up and drop-off times, unsafe crossings, and near misses.
The report states that current accident data does not fully illustrate the seriousness, as it fails to highlight near misses and risky behaviour, nor does it point out which schools are more at risk.
Current traffic management tools such as zig-zag markings and 20mph zones are seen as ineffective without strong enforcement, the report says.
Limited funds are available for initiatives and enforcement measures to improve safety across the borough.
Conservative councillor Adam Tinsley put forth a motion in November 2023 for Rotherham Council to take action on this issue.
Adam Tinsley said: “Crucially, the statistics highlighted a worrying trend – serious incidents and road casualties involving younger children have been rising.”
He noted that the review considered actions such as tackling illegal parking, imposing timed vehicle restrictions, promoting walking and cycling, and ensuring safer pedestrian crossings.
“A review is only as good as the action and investment that follow it. Identifying these needs on paper will not keep children safe on the tarmac – funding must follow,” he said.
Coun Tinsley stressed that enforcement alone isn’t a solution and highlighted the need for infrastructure alongside active travel schemes and crossing patrols.
The report is scheduled to be presented to councillors on the 1st September during the improving places select commission meeting.