Brake

Children in the UK are at risk from speeding motorists on roads near their schools, according to a survey commissioned by Bridgestone and Brake.

Conducted by internet-based market research firm YouGov, the survey found that 35% of primary school parents witnessed near misses near the school gates.

In addition, 17% of school run drivers had admitted of parking their vehicles illegally.

Bridgestone has therefore urged motorists to slow down and look around while driving near communities and schools.

Bridgestone managing director John McNaught said: "With the days becoming shorter and weather conditions expected to become more challenging for drivers, now is the ideal time to launch an awareness campaign.

"We are asking everyone to look out for each other, especially pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging mutual respect for everyone on the road."

"We commissioned research from YouGov, questioning 1,000 primary school parents, in an attempt to reinforce our safety messages.

"The findings certainly backed up our initial fears about road safety on the school run."

With an aim to make roads safer, Bridgestone is donating 5,000 high-visibility safety jackets to schools across the UK that will allow drivers to easily spot schoolchildren while travelling in some seasons.

Brake spokesperson Sarah-Jane Martin said: "These are shocking figures, showing just how risky the journey to school can be for kids and parents.

"We are asking all drivers to slow down and take care, especially around homes, schools and shops. We need to make sure our kids and people of all ages, not just the lucky few, can walk and cycle without being endangered.

"With Road Safety Week coming up next month, we are asking everyone to look out for each other, especially pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging mutual respect for everyone on the road."

Image: Bridgestone is supplying 5,000 high-visibility safety jackets to schools across the UK. Photo: courtesy of Bridgestone / SourceWire.