Simple terms explainer: 

Councils have a duty to make sure public roads are as safe as possible for everyone who uses them. This means they must take steps to reduce risks, such as installing and maintaining road signs, traffic lights, and markings, managing speed limits, and improving dangerous junctions or bends under a Safe Systems approach. They also work on measures like pedestrian crossings, cycle lanes, and barriers where needed. The goal is to prevent accidents and protect drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians by keeping the road network well-designed, clearly marked, and properly managed.