The number of people killed on Suffolk roads fell to a ten year low in 2008.In total 31 people were killed on Suffolk's roads with 333 being seriously injured.

The number of people killed on Suffolk roads fell to a ten year low in 2008.

In total 31 people were killed on Suffolk's roads with 333 being seriously injured. Approximately 2300 people were slightly injured.

The number of people seriously injured is a 26% increase compared to 2007. However, around 200 fewer people were slightly injured compared to 2007 figures.

County Councillor Guy McGregor, portfolio holder for Roads and Transport and Chair of the Suffolk Roadsafe Partnership Board said "Whilst I am extremely pleased to see the number of people dying on Suffolk roads decrease, I am disappointed to see the rise in serious injuries in 2008, especially as serious collisions have been decreasing for the last four years.

"There appears to be a significant increase in motorcycle casualties. This may be due to the surge in fuel prices late last year. It is reported that novice riders have been buying small cheap motorcycles in large numbers and using them for commuting trips. In response we will need to continue our motorcycle safety campaigns, training and enforcement. We have also worked together with regional Road Safety teams to prepare a bid for a substantial government grant to work with rural motorcyclists."

The Suffolk Roadsafe Partners have worked closely over the past year to try to reduce collisions. In addition, Suffolk County Council funded police and safety camera enforcement as part of the 'Save a Life' campaign. The Highways Agency has used its portable message signs on its trunk roads, and the Fire and Rescue Service organised training courses aimed at young driving offenders.

Jacqui Cheer, Deputy Chief Constable and Vice Chair of Suffolk Roadsafe added, "Suffolk Police and the Fire and Rescue Service are usually the first people attending a road accident and we know how traumatic these can be both for the victims and the emergency crews. Time after time we see the results of careless driving and ask what more can be done to get the message across.

"We will work with our partners to publicise and enforce four key messages - keep within speed limits, don't drink and drive, always wear a seat belt and switch off mobile phones while driving.

Last December the Suffolk Roadsafe Board approved a challenging action plan for 2009 and 2010 dealing with all types of road users and all age groups.