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Last year, across our police force area, 56 people lost their lives in collisions and 468 people suffered serious injuries. Common causation factors listed in these collisions include:
Enforcing the law around these issues takes place across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire 24/7.
Throughout April, the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) will be focusing on their ‘Fatal Four’ operation. The national operation will recognise the significant contributory factor these issues have in road traffic collisions and will highlight the work that we do every day to tackle these.
Speeding, as well as inappropriate speed, can have a devastating impact on the safety of road users, increasing the risk of a collision and the severity of the consequences. If prosecuted for speeding, the minimum penalty is a £100 fine and 3 penalty points.
Everyone knows it’s illegal to use a hand held mobile behind the wheel and motorists caught face a £200 fine and six points on their licence. Drivers caught twice face a lengthy ban – which could also lead to a £1,000 fine. While new drivers - those who have passed within the last two years - face having their licence revoked if caught just once. New legislation also makes it clearer that the law includes using phones for reasons such as internet use, checking notifications and uploading content whilst driving.
There is no fool-proof way of calculating how much alcohol you can drink and remain under the limit, or knowing how much an individual person can drink and still drive safely. There is also no way of knowing how long certain drugs can stay in your system. If caught whilst driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs you risk an unlimited fine, losing your licence and a possible prison sentence.
Seatbelt use is such a significant contributory factor with regards to road collisions and the resulting injuries. In the UK it is a legal requirement for drivers and passengers to wear a seatbelt, unless they have an exemption and it is the driver’s legal responsibility to ensure that any passenger under 14 years old is using the appropriate child restraint.
Superintendent Steph Brighton said: “Everyone knows the rules around seatbelts, drink/drug driving and mobile phones and the importance of sticking to the speed limit and we are very clear that when you get behind the wheel it is your responsibility to stay focused and alert. The majority of drivers use the roads respectfully and adhere to the law but it is concerning that we still have some drivers across our area who are willing to risk it. Enforcing the law across our roads is a year round commitment for us to challenge this behaviour”.