Operation Spotlight highlights risk on the roads

Last year, more than 500 people were killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions on our three counties roads.

Across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire 55 people died and 486 were seriously injured, 12% of these involved someone aged 17-24. Common factors listed in these collisions include;

Keeping those who use our roads safe is a year-round priority and enforcing the law around these issues takes place across Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire 24/7, with road safety sitting at the heart of Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion’s Safer West Mercia Plan.

Over the next two weeks we will be supporting ‘Operation Spotlight’, a national operation across the UK, to highlight the work we do every day across our three counties to tackle these issues. A particular focus will be highlighting issues for our younger road users and the additional risks they face due to inexperience.

Superintendent Stuart Bill, West Mercia Police said: “Everyone understands the law around seatbelts, drink/drug driving and mobile phones and the importance of adhering to the speed limits. When you use a vehicle it is your responsibility to stay safe, focused, alert and to respect other road users. The majority of people do exactly that, they drive responsibly and follow the law. But it is concerning that there are still drivers and riders across our force area who don’t. Influencing and changing this behaviour remains a challenge, particularly when engaging with younger road users.

Education is a year‑round commitment for us. We work closely with partner agencies to deliver inputs that help people understand the risks and consequences of dangerous behaviour. Alongside this, our enforcement continues for those who still choose to break the law. Any fatality on our roads is a tragedy and we are committed to making our roads safer for all and to target those who still break the law and put others at risk.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “Enforcing the rules of the road plays a vital role in keeping us all safe. West Mercia Police work all year round to help prevent the kind of harm no one should ever have to face. Tragically, lives are still being lost, with one death being one too many. The impact is truly devastating, as I often hear from bereaved families whose lives have been changed forever. That’s why it’s so important that we, as a society, all do our bit. Younger drivers remain disproportionately involved in serious collisions, and I believe graduated driving licences are one way to reduce that harm. As national conversations continue, I am committed to ensuring those beginning their driving journey have access to the education and support they need to stay safe.”