Just came here to post that same comment (http://www.economist.com/comment/2312452#comment-2312452 http://www.economist.com/comment/2312452#comment-2312452). W

Just came here to post that same comment (http://www.economist.com/comment/2312452#comment-2312452 http://www.economist.com/comment/2312452#comment-2312452). While it's surprising the Economist failed to mention this maybe the UK's and Sweden's approaches are actually not that different? We have lots of speed bumps, traffic calming techniques, cameras, average speed checks, high vis signing, smart roadside warning stuff, railings at many pedestrian crossings etc. Most modern cars you can buy now come with beeping alerts if you don't plug your belt in and our drink driving rules are tough and enforced. Also, depending on where in the UK you live, it's difficult to drive at a speed that could do any serious damage due to the horrendous congestion! Whenever I'm on the M6 I seem to spend most of the time stationary :/ Anecdotal Edit: I also think there's a difference in driving mentality/culture between British drivers and those from some other EU countries e.g. France. I lived there for 5 years and noticed that drivers there were much more willing to overtake on blind bends (which used to scare the shit out of me) and much less inclined to make way for other road users merging. Their attitude to driving seemed a lot more focused on their individual needs rather than the collective. My French girlfriend (who now lives with me here in the UK) agrees FWIW.