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Writer's pictureSafer Highways

Heartbreak as 10 people die on our roads in tragic few weeks


A senior police officer has issued a warning to road users' following a 'significant number' of very serious crashes across Devon and Cornwall in recent weeks.


Superintendent Ryan Doyle, Devon and Cornwall Police’s head of roads policing, says there will be an increase in roads policing officers and speed detection teams in a bid to improve safety.


It comes as Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed that officers had attended 67 serious collisions in the last month alone. 35 of the crashes took place in Devon with 32 taking place in Cornwall.

As a result of these collisions, ten people have died including several young people. In a heartfelt video appeal, Supt Doyle said: “There has been a significant number of very serious collisions on Devon and Cornwall’s roads recently.


“Sadly, many of these have resulted in a tragic loss of life which, as you can imagine, has been devastating for the families and friends of those involved. These people are being supported by specialist officers and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“The vast majority of road users in Devon and Cornwall are safe, responsible and respectful – and I would urge everyone to lead by example.


The five main causes of serious injuries and deaths on the region’s roads, known as the ‘fatal five’, are driving at an excessive speed, not wearing a seatbelt, driving while using a mobile phone, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, careless or inconsiderate driving.


He continues: "To improve road safety, we are increasing the number of roads policing officers and speed detection teams on our roads. I hope this provides reassurance to the vast majority of road users – and a visible deterrent to those who people’s lives at risk.


“The past few weeks have been truly tragic and the last thing our officers want to do is knock on any more doors to tell someone a loved one isn’t coming home. Please, please, drive safely.”


Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is also chairman of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership. Commissioner Hernandez said: “First and foremost, my thoughts are with the families, friends and loved ones of those who have died in these recent collisions. It has been a truly tragic two weeks.


“Ensuring everyone’s safety on our roads is one of the four main priorities in my Police and Crime Plan. The Vision Zero South West partnership and all its members are committed to doing whatever is necessary to reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured on Devon and Cornwall’s roads.


“I would urge everyone to please use the roads responsibly, respect other road users and leave plenty of time for any journeys you make.”



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