In 2023 so far, Wiltshire has witnessed a tragic total of 13 fatalities on its roads.
This somber figure follows the loss of 29 lives in road accidents in the county throughout 2022. Furthermore, since January, the Serious Collision Investigation Team (SCIT) has already responded to 19 of the most severe road traffic collisions, where injuries sustained were gravely serious. This number surpasses the total incidents for such collisions recorded in the entirety of last year.
In response to this distressing trend, Wiltshire Police is dedicating its efforts to prioritise road safety throughout the summer period, aiming to reduce the number of fatalities on the county’s roads.
Chief Superintendent Phil Staynings emphasises that each life lost on the roads is more than just a statistic; it represents a beloved individual—a son or daughter, a sibling, a parent or grandparent. The impact of each fatality ripples through families, friendship circles, and communities, leaving behind devastation and grief.
To tackle this pressing issue, “This summer, we are making road safety a focus for the entire Force through enforcement and intensive awareness raising focusing predominantly on the fatal five offences which contribute to serious collisions. These are speeding, drink and drug driving, using a phone while driving, not wearing a seatbelt, or careless and dangerous driving” he said.
Recently, local officers collaborated with the Road Safety Partnership at the Orbital Retail Park in North Swindon for a Road Safety Education Day. The event utilized a vehicle involved in a serious collision to underscore the significance of road safety.
Philip Wilkinson, Wiltshire Police, and Crime Commissioner, commends the proactive approach taken by the police force and believes it will have a direct impact on improving safety in Wiltshire. Despite significant improvements in enforcement efforts, there is a need to reinforce the message that dangerous driving and excessive speeds will not be tolerated. Efforts to slow down drivers in identified hotspots have shown promise, but continued vigilance and proactive policing are essential to prevent accidents and minimize road fatalities.
Wiltshire Police’s Community Speed Enforcement officers have been actively present, issuing 3,364 tickets, speed awareness courses, and court referrals across 340 locations between January 1st and August 4th, 2023. Additionally, the Roads Policing Unit has taken action by issuing 6,293 notices for various offences, including speeding, mobile phone use, and failure to wear seatbelts during the same period.
Assistant Inspector Will Ayres from the Roads Policing Unit stresses the importance of raising awareness and improving road safety.
“All too often, we see drivers speeding, or failing to give the road their full attention, whether that is due to mobile phones or other factors. It may seem like minor offences to some, but it is often these momentary lapses of concentration that can lead to collisions. We are dedicated to raising awareness and improving road safety to prevent further deaths as a result of collisions.
Throughout the summer, Wiltshire Police will share stories from its officers, publicise road enforcement activity details, and encourage community involvement in making the roads safer.
