DRIVERS are being urged to take care on rural roads as a new campaign is launched.

The Think Road Safety Campaign warns drivers that less traffic on rural roads does not mean fewer accidents.

Recent statistics suggest that 63pc of traffic fatalities occur on rural roads and more than 16,000 people were killed or seriously injured last year on these roads.

Drivers are advised to be aware of unforeseen hazards, such as blind bends or animals in the road, and to take care when driving at night in case they are blinded by other drivers' headlights.

Road safety minister David Jamieson said: "We are committed to improving road safety on every road in the country, but too many accidents are happening on quiet country roads.

"It's only right we highlight the dangers and urge motorists to take the same care as they do when driving in urban areas to avoid crashes."

For more advice. visit www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk.