WE are occasionally chided by readers for describing the A64, in headline shorthand, as a "killer road". They point out that an inanimate road cannot kill, and stress that accidents are the result of human fallibility.

This is true. But it is equally true that a well-designed road, built to accommodate the likely traffic volume and incorporating safety features, will minimise driver error and the consequences of any mistakes made. That means safer journeys and fewer accidents.

The A64 is called a killer road for a reason. Countless lives have been lost in crashes along this mish-mash of a trunk route.

Today the North Yorkshire coroner added his voice to the many calling for the A64 to be completely upgraded. Michael Oakley knows at first hand the misery that stalks the road: he has had to oversee too many inquests into drivers and passengers who set off on a journey never to return.

There is little doubt that driver error played its part in the crash which was the subject of his latest inquest. But that was exacerbated by a stretch of road which narrows, curves and drops - like the first bend at Brands Hatch, to use Mr Oakley's comparison.

Along its route, the A64 switches between four lanes of motorway-style road and winding two-lane carriageway, and takes in steep hills and sharp bends. On any short stretch, it mixes massive trucks, family saloons, powerful motorbikes and unhurried tractors. Little wonder so many road users have come to grief.

If the number of A64 casualties had occurred in a train wreck or airline disaster, public inquiries would have been established, and million pounds invested in safety improvements as a result.

All we have for the A64 is a Highways Agency report on minor improvements described as "depressing" by one North Yorkshire councillor.

Until all the voices calling for change are heard, and the A64 is dualled all the way, we can expect more casualties and, sadly, more inquests.

Updated: 11:40 Thursday, June 12, 2003