#SaferSummerRoads

Speeding is one of the major contributing factors in road traffic collisions. If you speed you are more likely to be involved in a crash and the chances of serious injury or death are greatly increased. Speeding is often a factor in collisions and, in the last three years, speed contributed to 32 per cent of crashes in which someone died or was seriously injured.

We think that’s reason enough to slow down when driving!

• All road users should travel within the speed limits. Remember just a few extra miles per hour can make all the difference to your reaction, breaking distances and ultimate consequence of any collision. For example, if you are travelling at 50 mph it will take 53 metres to stop, that’s the length of an Olympic swimming pool!
• When driving, you should leave enough clear distance in front of you to be able to come to a stop. This is in case the traffic suddenly slows down, causing you to brake.
• Be aware of your speed whilst driving – look for hazards and adjust your speed, the speed limit is not a target.
• Be considerate towards other road users, such as cyclists and pedestrians. Don’t be the one who stops them going home safely. If you hit a pedestrian at 30mph they have a 1 in 5 chance of being killed, or 1 in 3 if hit at 35mph.

As motorcyclists, cyclists and pedestrians are usually out more during this period it is important to remember to be aware of other road users. All road users should be treated with respect, and we should all pay attention to those who are most vulnerable on the roads to make sure we all get home safely. We all know a vulnerable road user, so we need to give them the time and space to use the road safely.

• All road users should follow the highway code, and keep up to date with any changes.
• Give other road users the space they need to use the road safely. If you’re passing a cyclist leave at least 1.5 metres between you, if you’re passing a horse rider always remember to slow down on the approach and pass slowly, giving the horse room.
• Look twice at road junctions, before turning, overtaking, or before crossing the road to make sure it’s safe. If you’re driving, make sure to check your blind spot too.
• You shouldn’t harass other road users.
• You can face consequences for dangerous driving.

There will be young people out and about enjoying their time off school and we want them to be as safe as possible. Educate your children and teenagers about road safety

Walking:

• Make sure they know the green cross code:
  • Find a safe place to cross.
  • Stop just before you get to the kerb.
  • Look all around for traffic and listen.
  • If traffic is coming, let it pass
  • When it is safe, go straight across the road – do not run, keep looking and listening while you cross.
  • Road safety activity sheet for children – help your children explore the topic of road safety through this printable activity sheet.
• Check they know how to use crossing places such as pelican and zebra crossings and where to walk if there’s no pavement
• Talk to them about focusing on the road and traffic – phones, listening to music, friends amongst other things can distract their attention.
• Make sure they can be seen - if they’re out a bit later with friends over the school holiday, check they’re wearing something that helps them be seen.

Cycling:

• Make sure they check the tyres and brakes of the bike before they ride.
• Ensure they wear a helmet.
• They will need lights on their bike if they’re likely to be out later. They should also wear bright and reflective clothing
• Some schools offer training, such as Bikeability. If not, you could look to see if there are any courses in your area.