Scotland has the highest rate of accidental deaths in the UK, according to new figures released by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA).
The data shows 51 people per 100,000 died in accidents in Scotland in 2023/24, compared to a UK average of 34.
That places Scotland above Wales (44), Northern Ireland (39) and England (32), with people in Scotland 62% more likely to die in an accident than those in England.
Falls are the leading cause of accidental death, particularly among older people.
Deaths from accidental poisoning, including drugs and alcohol, are also significantly higher in Scotland. The figures show 21 deaths per 100,000 people, compared to eight in England.
Across the UK, accidental deaths are rising. Around 23,000 people die each year, while almost 900,000 are admitted to hospital due to accidents.
RoSPA said there was an 8% increase in accidental deaths in 2023/24, alongside a 3% rise in hospital admissions.
The figures also highlight inequality, with people in the most deprived areas of Scotland almost 28% more likely to be admitted to hospital than those in less deprived areas.
Accidents are estimated to cost the NHS around £6 billion each year, with a similar impact on the wider economy due to lost working days.
RoSPA is calling for a national accident prevention strategy, warning that many incidents are avoidable with the right measures in place.