Road safety reminder and education to public
The Force is urging the public to drive safely and make good decisions when out on the roads.
The biggest killers on the roads in Dorset are known as the fatal five. This includes drink and drug driving, excessive and inappropriate speed, not wearing a seatbelt, driver distractions such as using a mobile phone and dangerous or careless driving.
Each of the fatal five is caused by a motorist’s own error of judgement taken when in control of a vehicle.
The Force is urging the public to make good driving decisions to keep everyone safe:
- Take time to perform safe manoeuvres
- Do not get distracted by your mobile phone
- Always wear a seatbelt
- Keep within the speed limits
- Do not drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Inspector Lee Turner, of the Roads Policing Team, said: “Our roads policing officers have attended a number of fatal and serious road traffic collisions recently and the thoughts of everyone at Dorset Police remain with those very sadly affected.
“The teams are working hard to investigate these road traffic collisions and identify the full circumstances of each incident.
“Our officers are doing all they can to focus their efforts, but we need the public to recognise how important it is for them to also do everything they can on the roads.
“There is a minority of people who believe a collision won’t happen to them and that they are invincible. We need everyone to have the mindset of thinking safety first when travelling in a vehicle – every driver out on the roads is responsible for not only their vehicle and themselves, but also their passengers and all other road users.
“As we approach the last weekend before Christmas, we know that many people will be out socialising and using their vehicles to visit family and friends.
“We are urging all drivers to make good decisions – a poor choice made in a split second can have catastrophic consequences that can impact many families.
“Do not get behind the wheel and drive your vehicle unless you are confident that you can drive safely and not put any other road users at risk. Everybody has a responsibility to be vigilant when operating a vehicle of any kind.”