Everyone must play their part to help reverse the “worrying rise” in road deaths and injuries, said a UK road safety education organisation after the first increase in road casualties in 18 years.

“We urge the Government, fleet drivers and all road users to take action to reverse this worrying rise in UK road casualties before it becomes a trend,” said Des Morrison, managing director of TTC Group, whose organisation educates 300,000 road users each year to reduce casualties nationwide.

Vulnerable road users on foot or bike were over represented in the new casualty statistics.

More needs to be done to tackle pedestrian deaths which went up nationwide by 12% from 398 in 2013 to 446 in 2014 while serious injuries to cyclists rose by 8%, said the TTC Group, which runs Bikeability training for both children and adults through Cycle Experience.

With a third of all traffic collisions work related, fleets also have an important role to play in reducing road risk, added Morrison.

“Companies can safeguard their staff and reduce road traffic collisions through effective management and by introducing a road safety culture in their organisation and supply chain," he said.

"Through driver and vehicle risk management solutions such as TTC DriverProtect, companies have an affordable option to reduce road risk, achieve real savings, engage your employees and comply with health and safety law.”

Drivers can also do their part by keeping up-to-date with the latest legislation, best practice and watching out for other road users, especially vulnerable cyclists and pedestrians. Drivers should also re-read the Highway Code, urged Morrison.

As cycling grows in popularity, cyclists should take precautions to be clearly visible and avoid the blind side of lorries at junctions.

“We have to share the road space safely with each other. Be aware of what is around you. Keep a safe distance and then you can stop in plenty of time,” added Morrison