M27 stretch through Portsmouth one of the most dangerous in the country

The 3.1-mile section came in at number eight in the top 10 most hazardous motorways in Britain – with 98 accidents causing casualties between 2014 and 2018.

The data, collated by the JPIMedia data team, also showed that the A2047, through Hilsea to Fratton, and Northern Road in Cosham (A397) were the most hazardous roads in the south east with 88.5 and 74.7 accidents causing casualties per mile respectively.

In the same four-year-period, there was 3,085 accidents on the A3 and A3(M), which runs from London to Portsmouth, which put it in the top 10 for roads across Britain with the highest number of accidents.

Councillor Lynne Stagg, transport boss for Portsmouth City Council, said: ‘It isn’t surprising because we have extremely congested roads and if people are agitated by traffic they may not drive how they are supposed to.

‘Public transport is something that can help this but Portsmouth doesn’t have a high number of bus journeys per person compared with other areas in the south but we need to encourage people to use it and also cycle or walk places which ultimately is better for their health as well.’

Police have warned drivers to stay safe on the road in order to prevent accidents.

Hampshire and Thames Valley Road Safety Sergeant Scott Kerr said: ‘If you wouldn't drive like it on your driving test, then please don’t once you hold a licence.

‘It is vitally important that all road users stay within the speed limits, ensure they are not distracted while at the wheel, are correctly wearing a seatbelt and are not impaired through drink or drugs.’

Jack Cousens, head of roads policy for the AA, added: ‘All road users have a responsibility to one another to get from A to B safely.

‘The A3(M) is a major route and is often busy. Any road featuring in the top 10 for collisions should be looked at to see what safety improvements can be made.’

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