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February 2025: A Year in Review |
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Dear Resident Causing Serious Injury by Careless Driving Welcome back to Day 2 of our 2025 Year in Review series where I'm recapping on a variety of incidents which were attended and investigated by Team Herts officers. The aim of these messages is to share the good work carried out by our officers as well as to educate and raise awareness on given crime types. In February 2025, a 19-year-old driver was involved in a collision with two pedestrians on St Albans Road in Harpenden which resulted in serious injuries to both victims. The incident was reported immediately which led to officers from our Response, Neighbourhood, and Roads Policing Teams being deployed. Our Control Room requested an Ambulance attend given the severity of injuries reported. Officers on scene ensured the casualties were supported until our colleagues from the Ambulance Service arrived. Meanwhile, Police carried out immediate checks and roadside procedures with the driver, such as a preliminary roadside breath test to check that the driver was not driving under the influence of alcohol. The driver was subsequently arrested and brought to Custody for interviewing. Following an investigation, the suspect was Charged and Bailed to attend Magistrates’ Court. The 19-year-old pled Guilty to both counts of Causing Serious Injury by Careless or Inconsiderate Driving and to driving the vehicle without a valid test certificate (MOT). The defendant was sentenced in October 2025 to 20 weeks in prison suspended for 12 months. She was ordered to pay Court Costs and a Victim Surcharge, and she will also have to complete a rehabilitation activity of up to 15 days alongside 150 hours of unpaid work. Officers regularly attend Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs) and carry out Collision Investigations in cases where people are injured. We have dedicated officers on Road Policing Units who proactively deal with drivers committing road traffic offences across Hertfordshire. Careless or inconsiderate driving can happen at any time of year. The offence involves actions that fall below the standard expected of a competent driver. We know that many RTCs are avoidable so I’ve included some important reminders for drivers below: Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue. We recommend a 15-minute break for a 2-hour continuous journey. Avoid distractions. If your attention is focused on other drivers, your satnav system or mobile phone, you’re more likely to ignore hazards which can lead to collisions. Do not drive under the influence. Driving whilst impaired through alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of collisions. Watch your speed. Driving at excessive or unsuitable speeds can endanger other road users and pedestrians. Drive according to the road and weather conditions. Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, avoid sudden braking, and ensure your vehicle is roadworthy.
Kind Regards, Fiona. | ||
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