Britain has one of the safest road networks in Europe but also some of the worst congestion, according to new analysis by LeaseCar.
The UK recorded an overall index score of 63 out of 100 across safety, traffic, road quality and fuel prices, ranking 18th out of the countries analysed. The findings reveal a stark contrast: a strong safety record overshadowed by poor traffic flow.
Safety a success story
The UK stands out for its low road accident fatality rate – just 24 deaths per 1 million people. Only a handful of countries, including Norway (16) and Sweden (20), reported fewer fatalities per head of population. LeaseCar said this reflects “the effectiveness of the country’s road safety measures and infrastructure”.
Congestion a growing concern
The country’s overall ranking was pulled down by traffic delays, with the UK placed 34th for congestion. London remains the most gridlocked city, with hotspots such as the A40 Westway and the M25 near the Wisley Interchange. Other major cities – Bristol, Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham – also suffer heavily, causing daily disruption for millions.
Road quality and fuel costs
On road quality, the UK sits in the middle of the European table at 17th, scoring 4.9 out of a possible 7. While this suggests roads are broadly serviceable, many drivers continue to report frustrations with potholes and surface defects.
Fuel prices are another middling result. The UK ranked 22nd, with average prices in early August 2025 at 135–137p per litre for petrol and 142–144p per litre for diesel. Georgia offered the cheapest petrol at £0.82 per litre, while Iceland topped the chart at £1.89.
Dangerous and high-risk routes
Although motorways are generally safer per mile travelled, high traffic volumes on the A1, A38 and M25 mean they account for a large share of total incidents. Rural single-carriageway A-roads remain the most hazardous. The A537 “Cat and Fiddle Road” between Macclesfield and Buxton has one of the highest accident rates, particularly among motorcyclists. The A57 Snake Pass in the Peak District, the steep ascents of Hardknott and Kirkstone passes in the Lake District, and the A628 over the Pennines are also highlighted for their challenging conditions and accident history.
European comparison
- Best road quality: The Netherlands (6.4), followed by Switzerland (6.3)
- Worst road quality: Moldova (2.6) and Serbia (2.7)
- Least congested: Estonia, aided by its low population density
- Highest road fatalities: Georgia, linked to poor driver behaviour, an ageing fleet and limited enforcement
Tim Alcock, sales and marketing director at LeaseCar, said the research “highlights that while the UK has some of the safest roads, we still face challenges with traffic congestion. The findings provide a clear picture for policymakers and stakeholders, indicating that while safety is a success story, addressing traffic congestion remains a critical priority for the UK’s road network”.
The full table of data can be viewed here.
