Drop in fatalities a step forward

Although the total of 379 people killed on our roads in 2002 is still an unacceptably high, it is the lowest figure since 1965, according to figures released

There is little doubt that the reduction is partly due to the implementation of the penalty points system, which has reportedly brought about a significant change in driving behaviour.

This is particularly encouraging because the new system was not in operation long enough for its effectiveness to be fully appreciated.