Cameras help reduce Scots road deaths

More than two thirds of people agree with the use of speed cameras on Scotland's roads

The introduction of cameras on Scotland's roads has led to a fall in the number of fatal and serious accidents, new figures have suggested.

Data from the chief statistician revealed the average number of people killed or seriously injured had fallen by 56% at camera sites between 2007-09.

The figure represents a drop from 370 people to 163 per year.

That compares with a 38% drop in such accidents across all Scotland's roads over the same period.

In 2009 the Scottish government invested £6.5m in road cameras.

According to the figures, public support for speed cameras stands at 73%, with 70% agreeing they help to prevent accidents.

The data also said that the average cost of an injury accident in Scotland was approximately £96,000, while the cost of a serious accident was more than £218,000.

By the end of 2009, there were about 400 fewer personal injury accidents and at least 170 fewer fatal or serious accidents at safety camera sites in a year.

The Scottish safety camera programme director, Jim Dale said: "This statistical report illustrates that the Scottish safety camera programme is delivering excellent value for money.

"Not only are we helping to save lives but we are also reducing the financial impact of road collisions on the Scottish economy."