Collision risk around airports is double the national average

Richard Aucock, Contributor
Mon, 18 Nov 2024

New research from car insurers has revealed motorists are twice as likely to be involved in a collision within the vicinity of an airport than the national average.

Heathrow ranks number one in airport collision hotspots, with 4.2 injury-causing collisions per 1000 people each year.

This means that those living near Heathrow are subject to 2.4 times the national risk of a collision.

London Gatwick is second, followed by Manchester, London Stansted, London Luton, Birmingham and Bristol.

The data, analysed by actuarial consultancy Angelica Solutions, highlights a crucial road safety issue associated with airport proximity, says its director Sarah Vaughan.

"Motorists heading to these airports face an elevated risk of a collision, which goes beyond the usual challenges of driving," says Vaughan.

It’s not just motorists that are at risk either, she adds. Even those not driving to the airport should be alert to these risks – when setting foot outside the airport, watch out for potentially tired and hurried drivers, or those in unfamiliar hire cars or driving on an unfamiliar side of the road.

Overall, Vaughan stresses that the data shows everyone choosing to drive to the airport face increased risks compared to the typical journey – along with a financial hit if they are involved in an incident.

"Aside from the trauma, stress and inconvenience of being involved in a road collision, if you are found to be the ‘at-fault’ driver, it’s likely to cost you around £540 in excess payments and increased premium at your next renewal," she adds.

James Gibson is executive director at Road Safety GB. "The data clearly indicates that airport proximity significantly increases collision risks, posing threats not only to drivers but pedestrians and cyclists as well."

"There is work to be done to improve the current situation and this is going to need a collective effort with highway authorities, transport operators and stakeholders working to implement practical solutions that reduce these risks and protect all road users," he adds.

Ask HJ

I was fined at an airport drop off - should I appeal?

I have recently dropped a friend off at Newcastle International Airport & used their Short Stay Car Park 2 which gives the first 15 minutes free. On attempting to leave well within the 15 minute period I was held up by another vehicle which obstructed the exit road, as it is a one way system I had no alternative but to wait until the driver moved. When I arrived at the exit barrier I was charged £8.00 for overstaying. On checking my dash cam it shows that I was delayed because of another motorist & that in total from entering the car park to arriving at the exit barrier was only 15m 12s, in effect I've been charged £8.00 for overstaying by 12 seconds. Do you think there is any point in asking for a refund and if refused taking action in the small claims court?

Although this situation is frustrating and without the delay you would have left the car park in good time, the reality is that the charge applies as soon as the 15 minutes have elapsed, so the charge would have been the same whether you were 12 seconds past the 15 minutes or considerably more. You do have the option to request a refund but we would not expect it to be given, and a court claim is unlikely to be successful given that entering the car park would likely be deemed an acceptance of the terms and conditions that apply. It is also worth bearing in mind that the fees for a small claims court would be £35, so you may well end up £43 out of pocket.

Answered by David Ross

More Questions