Crashes on Calderdale roads cost £51 million in 1999 or £265 for each person in the district, according to latest Government figures.

Calderdale, which includes the Brighouse, Northowram and Shelf areas, was the scene for six deaths, 88 serious and 1,290 slight injuries in a total of 988 crashes.

But the bill, which includes costs for medical services, police action, property and vehicle damage and court settlements, is still significantly lower than the national average, indicating slower speeds and more seatbelt wearing.

Crashes killing one or more people cost an average of £1.2 million each, serious crashes are priced at £148,170 while slight injuries rack up £14,600 in expenses and even a bump needs £1,310.

Calderdale Council road safety officer Peter Shepherdson said: "In many ways it is unacceptable to put a monetary value on someone's life because money can never undo the grief caused by injury or death.

"However, I am pleased to say Calderdale has a good record of making every penny it spends on road safety result in the greatest number of lives saved."

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