MAJOR A-roads are dangerous by their very nature.

Carrying tens of thousands of motorists at high speeds on a regular basis, unfortunately makes them high-risk locations for serious accidents with often tragic consequences.

But it is right that everything that can be done to make them safer is done and the Darlington and Stockton Times welcomes the news that Highways England is looking at measures to improve safety on the A19.

It will start by closing the central reservation gap that contributed to the death of Carlton Miniott resident Sonia Rose who had no chance to avoid a van that crossed the dual carriageway and hit her car head on.

Following the inquest into her death, this paper launched a campaign to close that gap and it is heartening to hear that the Highways Agency is now acting.

Sadly it is too late for Mrs Rose and it will not take away the family’s pain at losing her.

But it may prevent others having to suffer the same, a suffering no doubt made all the worse because Mrs Rose would probably still be alive if the gap had not been there and if the crash barriers had been updated.

It is credit to Mrs Rose’s family that they have battled on in her name to try and prevent further tragedies.

Their online petition calling on Transport Secretary Chris Grayling to release funds to upgrade the road has attracted almost 2,500 signatures, showing just how many people feel strongly about its dangers.

The A19 is a life-line for the region’s economy, but it should not cost lives to use it.