Improvements in child pedestrian safety: have they been gained at the expense of other health goals?

Abstract

Data collected in 1995 and 1996 in seven Leeds primary schools in relatively disadvantaged areas show high rates of accompanied journeys to and from school. Parents responded to the perceived danger to children from traffic and other causes by increasing surveillance of children on journey and at play This paper presents the findings of the Leeds study and asks whether gains in terms of reductions in child pedestrian accidents have been at the expense of children's independent mobility and parents' time. Restrictions on children have consequences for their independent mobility and therefore on levels of physical activity, freedom and opportunities for learning.