ROAD casualties have fallen to the lowest level ever with a drop in the number of accidents, injuries and deaths.

The latest statistics show that in Glasgow the average road deaths per year fell to 13 for the last four years from 18 for the four years previous.

There was seven road deaths in the city last year from 1300 accidents.

The overall number of road accidents in Glasgow also fell significantly with the 2008-12 average down to 1759 from 2332 between 2008 and 2008.

Keith Brown, Transport Minister, revealed the figures and said work would continue to try and bring the number down even further.

Across the country the average number of deaths fell from 268 to 192 from a total number of accidents which also fell from 13,026 10,732.

Mr Brown said: "While the numbers of fatal accidents have fallen again, one death on Scotland's roads is simply one too many, and our focus continues to be ensuring we drive the numbers down further.

"There is still much to do, particularly in respect of safety issues for cyclists, motorcyclists and pedestrians.

Cycling campaigners said there was a need for greater education and investment to reduce casualties.

The figures showed an increase in cycling accidents and deaths, as more people take up cycling on the roads.

Nine cyclists died in collisions last year, two more than in 2011.

There were 898 cyclist casualties recorded in 2012, an increase of 9% from the year before.

Ian Aitken, Chief Executive of Cycling Scotland, said: "While the overall statistics for road safety have improved, the statistics relating to vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists are concerning.

"At the end of July, we will launch the Scottish Government funded "Mutual Respect" campaign for all road users. If we are to get 10% of journeys made by bike, people have to feel that cycling is safe."

stewart.paterson@ eveningtimes.co.uk