Accident analysis (From York Press)

Accident analysis

11:26am Saturday 22nd September 2012 in Letters By Reader's letter

FURTHER to my letter of September 4 about disingenuous evidence, I have obtained accident statistics from former liberal councillor Andrew Waller in regard to another matter.

It seems clear that councillors Semlyen and Simpson-Laing are floating their own ideas as to the causes of road accidents and are clearly part of the anti-car brigade where the car is at fault in any accident.

The statistics I have obtained clearly show a reduction in road traffic accidents from an unusual high in 2006/2007 of 160 adults and 12 children, to figures of 44 adults and one child in 2010/2011.

This reduction may be because of the 20mph limit near schools, an arrangement with which no sensible driver would argue.

It is still a concern so many adults were seriously injured and I would wish to know how and where the main fault lay.

The statistics fail to apportion cause or blame to these accidents, so councillors and others blame the “car and drivers” regardless.

Regarding cleaner air and less pollution at 20mph, those making silly comments do not understand how the modern engine works.

Most engines burn more fuel at low to medium speeds, and less fuel and more air at 30mph and above.

Drivers are taught to get up into the higher gears as soon as possible to use less fuel, therefore less chemicals in the exhaust fumes.

Paul W Cooper, Woodley Avenue, Acomb , York.