West Midlands Pedestrian Deaths Unacceptably High

Pedestrian fatalities on West Midlands streets remain "unacceptably high," according to the region's road safety commissioner. In 2025, 21 pedestrians lost their lives, accounting for almost half of the 50 total road deaths recorded.

While the overall number of people killed or seriously injured on the roads saw a reduction in 2025 compared to the previous year, the proportion of pedestrian fatalities has been increasing. This trend is concerning, as the national average for pedestrian fatalities as a percentage of all serious injuries is around 25%, a figure the West Midlands has now surpassed significantly in the last two years.

Analysis has identified 20 "clusters" where two or more pedestrian deaths occurred in the same location, with three-quarters of these clusters located in Birmingham. Investigations are focusing on identifying causes, including problematic locations and the suitability of pedestrian crossing facilities.

Initiatives to address the issue include average speed enforcement, which has shown a 39% reduction in personal injury collisions. Improvements to driver education and road infrastructure are also considered crucial. The West Midlands Combined Authority is developing a speed management protocol to further enhance safety measures.