Westcountry

The number of deaths on Devon's roads has gone up, figures show.

Forty-nine people died in 42 separate accidents in 2007, compared with 36 deaths a year earlier.

According to Devon County Council, the provisional police figures are the highest in the county since 2000.

Twenty-eight of the fatal collisions occurred on rural roads with a speed limit of 60mph and 70mph, with 10 of these on trunk roads owned by the Highways Agency.

Edward Chorlton, Devon County Council: "Each death sends a shock wave through the communities and families affected by the collision."

Thirteen fatal collisions were in 'urban' areas with 30 to 40mph limits.

The victims were predominantly car or van occupants (19 drivers and 12 passengers), but 10 were motorcycle riders or pillions.

Four pedestrians died, as well as two HGV occupants, a tractor driver and quad bike rider.

No cyclists were killed, nor any children under 16 years of age.

While some of these collisions are still subject to police or coroners' investigations, initial intelligence suggests that around half of these collisions may be attributed to basic errors of judgement or lapses.

These include right turn manoeuvres, in-car distractions and excessive speeds by motorcyclists.

It also seems likely that several may have involved drivers under the influence of alcohol.

Council spokesman Edward Chorlton said: "Each death sends a shock wave through the communities and families affected by the collision.

"It must be particularly hard to come to terms with the tragedy when someone is the innocent victim of someone else's behaviour."