News

Consider others when travelling through roadworks

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 GMT

The South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership is urging drivers to be considerate to other road users and road workers when travelling through roadworks.

With ever increasing volumes of traffic associated with modern living the maintenance of our roads becomes more frequent and necessary. The various agencies involved in the repair of our roads do so under increasingly difficult circumstances and, although not always obvious, make every effort to minimise disruption that may be caused.

Superintendent Eddie Murphy from South Yorkshire Police said “I would ask members of the public to take extra care when travelling through roadworks, allowing extra time for their journey to take into account issues such as temporary traffic lights or reduced speed limits.

“When parking close to roadworks please ensure that your vehicle does not cause an obstruction to passing traffic or pedestrians. The temporary works can sometimes include narrowed lanes for traffic and space for parking that would normally be available may not be accessible when roadworks are in operation.

“Roadworks will often have temporary road surfaces and changing lane priorities, adding additional safety considerations for both drivers and pedestrians. The works can sometimes cause delays to traffic which can be frustrating but the work taking place is essential. Both the motoring public and motoring authorities are asked to work together to maintain a safer road network”.

For further details of roadworks taking place in Barnsley, Doncaster, Rotherham and Sheffield visit the website www.travelsouthyorkshire.com/roadworks

4,690 motorists tested for drink driving during December

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

As part of a campaign by South Yorkshire Police targeting known drink-driving hotspots during December, 4,690 drivers were breathalysed and of those 239 (5.1 per cent) tested positive, or refused or failed to provide a breath test.

Of the total number of breath tests carried out, 828 of the tests followed a collision on the road and from these 10.6 per cent were recorded as being over the drink drive limit or unable to provide a breath test.

Nationally, drink and drug drive figures for the December 2011 Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) campaign showed that across the country 157,000 tests were conducted and more than 7,200 were arrested.

Throughout December, South Yorkshire Police followed an intelligence led approach to the campaign, specifically targeting areas with a known record of drink driving. The police enforcement was supported by a local campaign raising awareness of drink driving, irresponsible drinking and key safety messages relating to alcohol. The ‘Shaken and Slurred’ campaign appeared across the county and included a range of advertising methods such as local radio and bus-side advertising in addition to online advertising via Facebook and messaging in cinemas across the county.

South Yorkshire Chief Inspector for Roads Policing, Stuart Walne said: “With over 10% of collisions involving drink drivers the message couldn’t be clearer, alcohol and driving must not be mixed. Drink driving kills and has a devastating effect on families and loved ones.

“South Yorkshire Police are serious about keeping people safe from drink drivers. I'd like to thank my colleagues for their diligent work and the public for the support to the campaign and helping us with information of those who selfishly continue to drink and drive.

“If you know someone that regularly drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol I would urge you to contact South Yorkshire Police on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111”.

Rotherham Fixed Speed Camera Review

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

In 2009, the South Yorkshire Safety Camera Partnership began a review of its fixed speed camera sites, identifying sites that, based on their location, speed profiles and casualty history should be considered for decommissioning. Five fixed camera sites within the Rotherham area were identified as part of the review.

On 29 November 2010, the camera housings at the five sites were covered with 'Not In Use' bags to identify to motorists that these cameras were not in use.

From 9 May 2011, the trial included alternative speed interventions at the sites in question. These alternative interventions included mobile speed camera enforcement and vehicle activated signs.

Average speeds at all five sites have been recorded since the cameras were covered, the average speed of motorists does not exceed the speed limit at any of the sites highlighted.

The next phase will be to remove the camera housings. These will be made available for use at other locations across the county if required. The relocation of any fixed speed cameras will be dependant upon the casualty history and speed profile of any roads in question.

The five sites that this review has included are:

Fenton Road, Rotherham
A633 Sandygate, Wath upon Dearne
Barnsley Road, West Melton, Wath upon Dearne
A631 Bawtry Road, Brinsworth, Rotherham
A631 Bawtry Road, Hellaby, Rotherham

Make a new year's resolution that could save your life

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 00:00:00 GMT

Abandoning bad habits when using the road should be considered as part of a road safety-focussed new year's resolution, members of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership have urged.

According to national figures, failure to look properly is the most frequently reported contributory factor is collisions and is recorded in 40 per cent of collisions reported to the police.

Whether you are a pedestrian, driver, cyclist or motorcyclist you can make a simple new year’s resolution which may just save your life.

Pedestrians

· If you are enjoying music through your phone or mp3 player when crossing the road, be aware that it can distract you from checking for passing traffic.

· If you are going out for a drink, plan your journey home in advance. Over the Christmas period there has been an increased number of pedestrians involved in collisions with vehicles such as busses, trams and cars. Some incidents have resulted in someone dying.

· Always find a safe place to cross the road, even if you have had a drink it will still hurt or cause more serious consequences.

Drivers

· Always drive within the speed limit, at a speed that is appropriate for the road conditions. The weather conditions should always be taken into account.

· Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The consequences of doing so could change your life forever.

· Always wear your seatbelt, they are proven to save lives.

· Never use a mobile phone whilst driving. You’ll receive a £60 and three points on your driving licence if you are caught using your phone whilst driving.

· Allow extra time when travelling in bad weather and consider if you really need to make your journey. Listen to your local radio station for traffic updates.

Scooter riders and motorcyclists

· Always wear protective clothing, it could save your life.

· In poor weather and low light conditions consider wearing high-viz, being seen at all times makes you safer on the road.

· Always ride within the speed limits, at a speed that is appropriate for the road conditions.

· Consider some advanced training such as BikeSafe to further sharpen your skills, details are online at www.bikesafe.co.uk

Pedal cycles

· Make sure that your bike is fitted with appropriate lights if you’re cycling after dark. Riding without lights could result in a £30 fine.

· Always wear a cycle helmet and consider wearing high-viz clothing to make yourself easily seen, it’s no good thinking about it after a crash.

· Footpaths are for pedestrians, cyclists should travel either in designated cycle lanes or on the road. If you are caught riding on a footpath you could receive a £30 fine.

Superintendent Eddie Murphy from South Yorkshire Police said: “Death and injury on the road can cause long lasting grief and anguish to family members and friends. Everyone must take responsibility for their actions on the road, regardless of if they are a driver, pedestrian, cyclist or motorcyclist.

“Setting a new year's resolution to make road safety a priority will make the roads a safer place for everyone and may just save your life. If you hurt or kill someone on the roads it will stay with you forever.”

Allow extra time for your journey as winter weather hits South Yorkshire

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:00 GMT

With the first snow of December landing in South Yorkshire this week, the Safer Roads Partnership is urging drivers to pay increased attention to winter driving conditions, allowing extra time for journeys and preparing themselves accordingly for bad weather.

Snow, ice and spray on the roads mean that in addition to poor visibility, stopping distances increase and drivers should be prepared for the unexpected on the road. Drivers should allow extra time for journeys and carry emergency kit such as waterproof jackets, gloves and boots, regardless of how long or short their journey may be.

Supporting the recently launched Highways Agency campaign, the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership is asking drivers to:

· be informed - check traffic and weather updates

· be prepared - check your vehicle is ready for winter and always carry your emergency kit including warm and waterproof clothing and a shovel

· be aware - in severe weather Council and Highways Agency winter teams need the time and space to do their job

· be wise - conditions may change, drive with care and full attention

Jon Torn, Station Manager for South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue said “We all know that the weather worsens over winter. Bad weather and longer dark nights are a danger to all road users, affecting visibility and road conditions.

“Drivers and riders need to be aware that there may be black ice or snow on the road and that spray from other vehicles makes it much harder to see what may be happening ahead. The speed limit is a maximum, not a target and you should always drive at an appropriate speed for the conditions on the road.

Superintendent Eddie Murphy from South Yorkshire Police said “Carrying warm clothing and blankets in your car at this time of year is essential. If your car breaks down then you must always get out of the vehicle and as far away from the roadside a possible, particularly as there is a higher risk of vehicles skidding off the road at this time of year.

“If you do break down, in addition to phoning your break-down company I would urge you to call 101, the Police non-emergency number to make sure that the Police are aware of any potential hazards at the side of the road”.

For winter driving safety tips visit www.highways.gov.uk/winter

Free high visibility vests for South Yorkshire cyclists

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Every year across the country around 17,000 cyclists are involved in road traffic collisions, with approximately 2,500 being killed or seriously injured.

With dark nights and winter weather upon us, the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership aims to reduce this figure, encouraging cyclists to think about how they can make themselves safer and more visible to other road users.

The Partnership has a number of high visibility vests that are available free of charge to adult cyclists while stocks last. Vests can be collected from the following places across South Yorkshire:

Barnsley - Connects Offices and libraries
Doncaster - Scarborough House Council Office reception
Rotherham - Council libraries
Sheffield - Howden House Council Office reception

Superintendent Eddie Murphy said: “According to ROSPA, the most dangerous hours for cyclists are during the rush hour - 8.00 to 9.00am and 3.00 to 6.00pm on weekdays. Research also shows that cycling collisions in the dark are more likely to be fatal.

“Cycling is a great way of travelling, it is environmentally friendly and very cost effective but cyclists must be aware that they are often more vulnerable than other road users. Items such as bike lights, high visibility vests and helmets are all ways that cyclists can make themselves more easily seen. The South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership sees this as such an important issue that we thought it was appropriate to take this measure. Cyclists must take positive action to keep themselves safe”.

Are you too young to die?

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership organises road safety events to support the national Road Safety Week.

Nationally, road crashes are the biggest killer of young people and these casualties send shock waves through families and communities. Yet these casualties are preventable, often for reasons like driving too fast or overtaking dangerously, driving whilst using a mobile, driving on drink, drugs or while tired, failing to belt up or even most commonly as a result of not properly concentrating or paying attention on the road.

Road Safety Week runs from 21 – 27 November and during this time members of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership from South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue, South Yorkshire Police and the local Councils will be speaking to members of the public at Morrisons stores across the county about the dangers and responsibilities of being a driver.

You can come along to try out a driving simulator, see the new interactive Subaru, test out a police breathalyser kit, or simply ask a police or fire officer any questions that you may have about safety on the road.

The partnership will be at the following Morrisons stores throughout the week:

· Monday 21 November – Meadowhead, Sheffield

· Tuesday 22 November – York Road, Doncaster

· Wednesday 23 November – Lower Thomas Street, Barnsley

· Thursday 24 November – Hillsborough, Sheffield

· Friday 25 November – Parkgate, Rotherham

Superintendent Eddie Murphy of South Yorkshire Police said: “In South Yorkshire last year there were 435 people killed and seriously injured on the roads of the county. As a Partnership we work proactively to reduce these figures further, however we can only do this with support from the public of South Yorkshire.

“We must remember that each tragic collision on the roads will have a lasting impact on friends, families and loved ones. Whether you’re a driver, a motorcyclist, a pedal cyclist or a pedestrian you must be aware that you are responsible for your actions on the road.”

The Nationwide Road Safety Week is organised by Brake, the road safety charity. For details visit www.roadsafetyweek.org.uk

South Yorkshire motorists urged to make time for winter

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership is advising the county’s motorists to think carefully about the changing weather in relation to driving conditions as we approach winter.

Supporting the recently launched Highways Agency campaign, the Partnership is asking drivers to:

· be informed - check traffic and weather updates

· be prepared - check your vehicle is ready for winter and always carry your emergency kit

· be aware - in severe weather Council and Highways Agency winter teams need the time and space to do their job

· be wise - conditions may change, drive with care and full attention

South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership Manager, Ken Wheat said: “Winter brings with it bad weather and longer dark nights that pose a danger to road users, affecting visibility and road conditions.

“Drivers and riders need to be aware of the increased risks associated with driving in bad weather, particularly those who may have recently passed their test and not experienced driving in winter conditions before. Leave enough space between you and the vehicle in front so that you can pull up safely if it suddenly slows down or stops. Remember the ‘two second’ rule. Allow at least a two second gap between you and the vehicle in front. The gap should be doubled in wet conditions.

“We are urging people to be prepared for winter, think about the conditions and drive accordingly. With high profile Police drink drive enforcement taking place throughout December, drivers should remember that they are responsible for their actions on the road.

“Road safety is a major concern for all of us. Everyone should put safety first and, particularly in bad weather, consider whether their journey really is necessary or can be put off. The Safer Roads Partnership urges everyone to take extra care on our roads this winter. It may just save someone’s life.”

For winter driving safety tips visit www.highways.gov.uk/winter

South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership uses new approach to reduce casualties across the county

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 00:00:00 GMT

A brand new way of engaging with South Yorkshire’s most at risk road users is about to hit the streets. A Subaru Impreza will help spell out driving dangers to young people. It is fitted with a plasma screen where youngsters can watch a specially produced driving safety DVD covering issues such as speeding, drink or drug driving, mobile phones and seatbelts. Building on a similar, successful project in North Wales, the Subaru and its fire service livery will act as a focal point to get young people to engage with SYFR staff at events and in schools.

The vehicle, funded by the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership, will be used by South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue (SYFR) officers to educate up to 10,000 young people a year, reminding them of their responsibility to drive safely and the possible consequences of not doing so.

17-24 year-olds make up only 10% of the population but account for a third of all people killed or seriously injured on our roads. Provisional figures show that from January to June this year 26 young drivers aged 17-24 were killed or seriously injured on the roads of South Yorkshire, a reduction from 31 killed or seriously injured over the same period during 2010. The new vehicle will be key to SYFR continuing to work with partners to reduce casualties further.

East Area HM Coroner Nicola Mundy visited SYFR to look at the Subaru and speak to SYFR officers about road safety. Ms Mundy said: "I deal with the devastated families of young people who die in road collisions which are very often avoidable. This innovative approach to educating young people of the risks of death or injury on our roads is of critical importance and very impressive in its delivery”. SYFR’s lead on road safety, Station Manager Jon Torn, said: “It isn’t easy to impress upon young people just how dangerous a car can be, especially in the hands of inexperienced drivers, but I’m certain that this fresh approach will really help us get the message across.

“I’ve seen first-hand the devastating impact road deaths have on families and friends, so although we’ve make good progress in reducing the number of people seriously injured or killed, we still need to keep working hard to make South Yorkshire’s roads even safer.”

Ken Wheat, Partnership Manager for the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership said: “The interactive car will allow the Safer Roads Partnership through the Fire and Rescue Service to attract and engage with young people who are particularly hard to reach via conventional means.

“Although reducing,17 to 24 year olds are some four times more likely to be injured on our roads when compared with other age groups and road traffic collisions are the biggest cause of death amongst people of that age. We must continue to find innovative ways of getting our safety messages across.”

The Subaru will also complement SYFR’s existing driving simulator, which sees drivers learn about road safety risks as part of an interactive computer programme. It will be based at Aston Park fire station and the Lifewise Centre, from where it will be driven to events and interventions.

The picture above shows from left to right: Interim Assistant Chief Fire Officer Neil Hessell, East Area HM Coroner Nicola Mundy and Chief Inspector Paul Varley.

Over 3,500 students to see Dummy Run

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

From Monday 31 October, Theatre in Education performances will run across South Yorkshire, delivering important road safety messages to an estimated 3,500 year 7 students.

The production, called Dummy Run, is delivered by Quickfoot Live on behalf of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership and covers a wide range of issues, with a strong emphasis on risk taking, peer pressure and distraction. It supports key learning such as decision making and individual responsibility, safety culture and awareness and changing attitudes and behaviours.

The performance concentrates on a character called Jack and the dangers he faces every day on his journey to and from school. Using both mask and comedy, the audience follows the central character’s journey to inevitable tragedy.

A post production workshop gives the audience a chance to discuss the main points of the play in an entertaining and informative way and also helps them to visualise stopping distances whilst understanding road safety from different perspectives.

South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership Manager, Ken Wheat, said “This will be the third year that the Partnership has worked in successful collaboration with Quickfoot Live, previous performances have provided lively debate and allowed us to get road safety messages to almost 23,000 students across the county”.

“Regrettably, last year there was 1 child pedestrian aged 0-15 killed and 41 seriously injured on roads in South Yorkshire. This is, however, less than in previous years and in 2010 the number of people killed or seriously injured was the lowest on record. However, we cannot be complacent and will continue to find the best ways to engage with our communities, particular children and young people.”

Safer Roads Partnership encourages pedestrians to be bright, be seen as the clocks change this weekend

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

As the clocks change this weekend, the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership is encouraging pedestrians to be bright, be seen.

The message from the partnership comes at the same time as the Department for Transport is running a national awareness raising campaign.

The national Department for Transport campaign that is running on television and in cinemas is aimed at children aged six – 11 and spells out the dangers of not taking care on the roads. Television adverts will highlight the importance of finding a safe place to cross the road while the cinema campaign will remind children of the importance of making sure they can be seen when they are out after dark.

Ken Wheat, Manager for the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership said: “If you’re a motorist then you’ll know how difficult it can be to see pedestrians wearing dark clothes at night or when visibility is poor. With the clocks changing this weekend I would encourage all parents to remind their children about the Green Cross Code and ensure that they are wearing bright or reflective clothing. We would also ask drivers and riders to remain vigilant and check the condition of their vehicles as winter draws near.&rdquo

The government provides a wide range of online resources for teachers and parents who want to teach primary children about road safety. Short films, games, worksheets and free leaflets for children up to 11 years old are available at: http://www.dft.gov.uk/think/education/early-years-and-primary/

Students 'court' out by local Magistrate

Wed, 12 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

STUDENTS have today (12 October 2011) experienced the trauma of a court case at Sheffield Magistrates Court following a road traffic collision.

Eighteen-year old Michael Higgins had been driving his car when he was passed his mobile phone by his girlfriend and was distracted by two young children in the back of the car. As a result he ran a red light, was involved in a collision with a Ford Transit van and his girlfriend in the car passenger seat was killed instantly.

A distraught Higgins, who pleaded guilty and had no previous convictions, was charged with death by careless driving and was led down to the cells to begin a six month sentence behind bars, saying goodbye to his tearful mother as he left the court.

But the students from Longley Park Sixth Form College had been fooled – the court hearings were an elaborate hoax, organised by the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership to teach the students about the importance of driving safely and paying attention to the road.

Genuine magistrates, police officers, court officials, prosecuting and defending solicitors all staged the trial as they would in a genuine case, playing their parts out, deceiving students and passing out a message of what can happen if you kill someone in a road traffic collision.,

In total 30 students attended the court, thinking that they were going to view a real court case, what they were actually viewing was a staged trial with Chris Matthews, a Theatre Studies student from Norton College playing the part of the defendant.

Chris Matthews said “The mock trial was set up to portray the importance of driving safely and paying attention to the road. From my point of view, playing the part of the defendant meant that all eyes were on me.

“The students really believed it was a real case and were shocked at how serious things can become if you loose concentration on the road for just a split second”.

Patrick Baker, a 16 year old student at Longley Park Sixth Form College said “I’ll soon be learning to drive and I really can’t imagine being in the position of the defendant.

“Having seen this mock case in court today I will ask friends not to answer their phone when they’re driving. Once i’m driving I will not answer my phone illegally and will either keep it turned off or locked away in the boot”.

Joe Hockney, Road Safety Officer at Sheffield Council said “From the moment that the students walked into the court building, through the security checks and into the courtroom they felt it was a genuine court case, when they saw the defendant was the same age as them they gasped with shock.

“The key message from the day is that a driver should always pay attention to the road, being distracted for just a split second could have a devastating impact on the rest of your life”.

South Yorkshire students develop hard hitting videos to help save lives

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Students from Rotherham College of Arts and Technology have today seen the launch of a series of new road safety videos that have been developed by their fellow students.

The four video clips, developed for use as part of the Drive for Life initiative and aimed at 17-24 year old drivers across South Yorkshire focus on four real life case studies, featuring real people and real families that have been affected by collisions on the roads of South Yorkshire. They also feature Christine Talbot from ITV Calendar News who introduces each clip.

John Richardson, Drive for Life presenter explains: ”Young drivers represent about 7% of the driving population but are involved in approximately 32% of fatal collisions. Drive for Life is a South Yorkshire initiative that takes place at schools and colleges across the county. The event aims to raise awareness of the most important issues of driving and in the last year alone approximately 4,000 students have taken part in the event.

“We’ve run the Drive for Life event for the last four years and whilst we’ve had some excellent feedback we felt that we wanted to add a new section, focusing on road traffic collisions that had happened locally. Because the event is aimed at 17-24 year olds it made sense to get students in that age group to develop the videos as they know the things that are most likely to attract the attention of their peers and make them think about the messages in the videos.

“The students involved in developing the videos have done a great job and i’m sure that the hard work that they have put into this project will help to reinforce road safety messages to all that see the videos. With each death on the road costing an estimated £1.9 million, if these clips save just one life then they will have been successful”.

Ricky Charlesworth, Course tutor at Rotherham College of Arts and Technology has said: “Working with the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership has been a great experience for students on our BTEC National Diploma in Media Production course.

“Working closely with organisations such as the South Yorkshire Police, South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue and the local Councils has allowed students to really focus on an important issue and develop some excellent videos as part of their college coursework.”

Christine Talbot, ITV Calendar News, said: “These videos really bring home the message of how important road safety is. Messages such as always wearing a seat belt, paying attention to the road, the dangers of drink driving and speeding are all covered and it’s great to see that local students have spent so much time and effort in developing these short clips.”

The road safety video initiative has been developed with support from Irwin Mitchell Solicitors and will run as part of Drive for Life events at sixth forms and colleges across South Yorkshire.

Campaign urges drivers to look out for bikers

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Riders across Yorkshire and Humber are being given the chance to help drivers see them this month as the latest phase of the Someone’s Son road safety campaign gets underway.

Recent research has shown that drivers who know a biker are less likely to be involved in a collision with a motorcycle.

South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership, along with road safety partnerships for West Yorkshire and the Humber are asking bikers to befriend a driver, in an effort to reduce the number of collisions involving cars and motorcycles.

Flyers with space for a rider profile are being distributed through a popular motorcycle publication and riders are being invited to fill in the profile and display it somewhere a driver will see it, in the office, at the gym or even down the pub. The flyer along with guides for riders and drivers can be downloaded via the Someone’s Son website and facebook page. In addition radio adverts are being played across the Yorkshire and Humber region to raise awareness with drivers.

The campaign is being delivered across Yorkshire and Humber as statistics show that 20 per cent of fatal and serious crashes involve a motorcycle, the majority of these arise as a result of collision with another vehicle, most often a car. In urban areas riders are most at risk in the peak traffic times and there is a traditional rise in rider casualties in September as the weather deteriorates and the nights draw in.

Jon Torn, of South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, and lead for motorcycle safety in the county explains: “There is a road safety issue around drivers not always seeing motorcycles in traffic, in South Yorkshire 86 per cent of motorcycle collisions involve another vehicle. We hope that this campaign will encourage drivers to look out for bikes and reduce the number of people that are killed and seriously injured in road traffic collisions”.

“We know it’s not just about the driver though, riders need to ensure that they are riding in a safe manner and are visible to drivers, particularly as it starts getting darker earlier at night at this time of year. As a biker it is also important to wear the right gear, if you’re involved in a collision then the correct protective clothing will protect you far more than just a pair of jeans and trainers.”

“Our main message is to drive and ride safely and always pay attention to other road users.”

Since the campaign was launched in May 2010 over 2,000 people have visited the bespoke Someone’s Son website and over 1,000 high visibility vests have been handed out to riders at a range of events across the region.

South Yorkshire Police launch seat belt safety campaign

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Wearing a seat belt is one of the simplest ways that everyone can make themselves safer and less likely to suffer serious harm. People who fail to wear a seat belt while travelling on roads in South Yorkshire will be targeted by the Police as part of a week-long enforcement campaign which starts on Monday 12 September.

The initiative is part of a European-wide campaign organised by TISPOL (Traffic Information System Police). As part of the campaign, the South Yorkshire Police Roads Policing Group will be carrying out dedicated operations at known casualty hotspots across the county. The operations will focus on a number of road safety issues such as mobile phone usage as well as seat belt enforcement.

Police enforcement will be supported by seat belt safety messages being displayed on road-side variable messaging signs across the county, organised by the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership.

In 2009, of the 1,059 car occupants killed in the UK, research indicates that 21% were not wearing a seat belt. Statistics show that you are twice as likely to die in a crash if you don’t wear a seat belt.

Chief Inspector Stuart Walne said: “Putting on your seat belt should be part of your routine before even starting your car engine. As a driver you are responsible for ensuring that all passengers are wearing seat belts”.

If you’re involved in a collision wearing a seat belt could mean the difference between life and death. It makes no sense to continue risking your life by not belting up”.

Drivers caught without a seat belt face on-the-spot fines of £60. If you are prosecuted, the maximum fine is £500.

Police target known drink driving hotspots

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 GMT

As part of an enforcement initiative by South Yorkshire Police targeting known drink-driving hotspots during June, 1,595 drivers were breathalysed and of those 99 (6.2 per cent) tested positive, or refused or failed to provide a breath test.

The initiative was part of a national crackdown by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) which ran from 1 – 30 June. It aimed to reduce the number of people killed and injured on our roads by people who drink and drive.

Nationally, drink drive figures provided by ACPO show that across the country 88,629 tests were conducted and 5,373 (6.06 per cent) tested positive, or refused or failed to provide a breath test.

All drivers who provide a positive breath test, refuse to provide or fail to provide a sample, face losing their licence for at least 12 months. They could go to prison for six months or pay a fine of up to £5,000.

Throughout the month, South Yorkshire Police followed an intelligence led approach, specifically targeting areas with a known record of drink driving.

South Yorkshire Chief Inspector for Roads Policing, Stuart Walne said: “Running an intelligence led initiative means that whilst the total number of breath tests carried out has reduced in comparison to previous initiatives, the percentage of people caught drink driving has actually increased compared to the figures from last summer.

“The increased percentage of arrests shows we are serious about keeping people safe from drink drivers. I'd like to thank not only my colleagues for working so hard, but also the public in helping to inform us of regular drink drivers.

“It’s easy to avoid drink driving: you can nominate a designated driver, take a taxi or simply not drink alcohol for the night. As a driver you must take responsibility for your own actions and think about the effects on those close to you if you don’t come home or if you kill someone else as a result of driving under the influence of alcohol. No-one wants to have a police officer knocking on their door to tell them that someone that they care about has been killed as a result of something so easy to avoid.

“Such instances are not acceptable on the roads of South Yorkshire. If you know someone that regularly drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol I would urge you to contact South Yorkshire Police on 0114 220 2020 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111”.

South Yorkshire road safety events mark international campaign launch

Wed, 11 May 2011 00:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday 11th May 2011, the World Health Organisation launches its major global campaign, the ‘Decade of Action for Road Safety’. In support of this international event, the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership is putting on a day of displays, activities and safety briefings.

Across the world each year, nearly 1.3 million people die as a result of a road traffic collision: more than 3,000 deaths each day. Unless immediate and effective action is taken, road traffic injuries are predicted to become the fifth leading cause of death in the world, resulting in an estimated 2.4 million deaths each year.

To raise awareness, activities across South Yorkshire include a Drive for Life event for young drivers at the Doncaster, Rotherham & District Motor Trades Group Training Association (GTA) premises and a Fire and Rescue Service crash reconstruction event at the Doncaster North services on Junction 5 of the M18.

During this week approximately 300 students from the GTA will attend the Drive for Life event. The two hour interactive programme is designed to provide information that will enable drivers to make sensible and safe decisions when out on the roads. Issues such as having the correct documentation, speed, drink/drug driving, wearing seatbelts, and distractions are some of the important areas covered.

Presenters come from a range of organisations, including the Police, Fire and Rescue, the local Councils and local driving schools. The event also takes place at a range of schools, colleges and sixth forms across the county throughout the year.

Chief Inspector Stuart Walne, Head of Roads Policing for South Yorkshire said “Young drivers aged 17-24 are disproportionately more likely to be involved in road traffic collisions which result in death or serious injury.

“Events such as Drive for Life are a vital way of passing on an important message to young drivers. We want drivers to be able to enjoy their freedom on the road but equally drivers must understand that they are in charge of a vehicle which could be a lethal weapon if not driven responsibly.”

The Fire Service reconstruction at the M18 services will be a first chance for road users to try out the organisation’s new driving simulator. Cutting edge equipment puts drivers through their paces in a range of tough conditions using the latest interactive computer software.

Fire crews will also be showing how they cut casualties free from crashes and assist South Yorkshire’s Safer Road Partnership in delivering safety advice to drivers.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Station Manager Jon Torn, said: “This day is a landmark date for road safety and it is only right that we mark it in the best possible way, by getting out there, meeting drivers and doing our bit to get the road safety message across.

“Our new driving simulator is one of the best ways of testing drivers in different conditions, in a safe environment, and showing how their actions affect the safety of themselves and other road users.”

Statistics show that in 2010, deaths and serious injuries across the county fell to a record low 435, 95 fewer than the previous year. However, behind each of these statistics is a grieving family or someone coming to terms with a life changing injury and the Safer Roads Partnership will strive to do all it can with the resources available to continue to further reduce casualties in 2011 and beyond.

Tackling motorcycle casualties in Yorkshire and Humber

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Road safety partnerships and Police forces across Yorkshire and Humber are teaming up this summer in what will be the largest road safety campaign ever undertaken in the region.

This joint working is in response to the number of bikers who are still being injured or killed on the roads, despite widespread publicity around the consequences of irresponsible riding and driving.

However, the popularity of this area brings with it a cost and the region has seen a significant number of motorcyclists tragically killed and seriously injured year after year.

The road safety partnerships hope that by working together with the police and riders this summer will be an enjoyable and safe riding season.

The region attracts motorcyclists from around the country who can experience some of the best riding routes available. From the scenic east coast to the expansive Yorkshire moors and dales, it provides breathtaking scenery and superb riding conditions for those who visit.

Roadside education and enforcement operations will underpin this year’s campaign with the aim of reducing rider casualties and improving road-user behaviour. This will be complimented with BikeSafe workshop sessions being run across the region; the launch of a new national smart phone app to aid riders plan their riding routes; rider information and engagement sessions throughout the summer season; and a campaign aimed at drivers to look out for riders.

Road safety partnerships and police forces are stepping up their activities which will focus on engagement, awareness and education, with the aim of encouraging the biking fraternity to help themselves and ensure they do not become yet another tragic statistic.

However, there are a very small number of riders who dismiss these opportunities and think that our road network provides an alternative 'track day', where anything goes.

Humberside Police Deputy Chief Constable David Griffin, who is also Police national lead for motorcycling, said: "We urge riders in our region to help by riding in a safe and legal manner. We have some great riding routes to share and would like you to ride home safely to your family each and every time."

He continued: "We will not tolerate anti-social riding and the region’s police are working together with road safety partnerships to eradicate this problem. This small minority will be caught and may be diverted to education courses where possible. However, extreme riding is unacceptable; we will prosecute and dangerous riders will be targeted by officers from all forces across all borders. "

James Toseland leads annual Easter Egg Run

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

Superbike star James Toseland will lead a procession of big hearted bikers through Sheffield on Easter Sunday (Sunday 24 April 2011) in a charity Easter Egg Run to raise money for The Children's Hospital Charity.

The Doncaster-born star will head up the charity convoy from the South Yorkshire Police Operations Complex on Europa Link near the Parkway, through Attercliffe, the Wicker, West Bar and up to Weston Park, opposite The Children’s Hospital, Sheffield.

The annual Easter Egg Run is organised by the Three Shires Honda Owners Club with support from South Yorkshire Police, a member of the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership.

James has supported the Egg Run for many years and usually leads the procession on his bike. Unfortunately, due to a recent wrist injury, he is unable to ride so will travel by car to lead the bikers up to the hospital.

Last year around 1,000 riders took part in the annual event helping to raise over £3,000 for the charity, through bucket collections on the day.

James, who has been supporting the annual Easter Egg Run for many years, will visit patients and families at the hospital to give out Easter eggs following the ride.

He said: " The Children’s Hospital Charity is a cause close to my heart and I like to do whatever I can to support the fantastic work of the hospital and its staff.

"Every time I visit I am always made to feel so welcome by the staff, families and the young patients. I love chatting to the children and always come away feeling inspired by their bravery and courage."

The event will take place on Sunday 24 April starting at the South Yorkshire Police Operations Complex on Europa Link near the Parkway with the first bikes leaving for the hospital at 10.00 a.m.

Simon Athey, Fundraiser at The Children’s Hospital Charity, said: "We are delighted that James is joining us for the annual Easter Egg Run again this year. James is a great supporter of the charity and really lifts the spirits of patients and their families during his visits to the hospital."

He added: "We hope keen bikers out there come and support us on the day. It’s a great opportunity to meet with a world champion biker and at the same time raise money for our wonderful hospital."

Anyone with a bike wishing to take part in the ride out can attend South Yorkshire Police Operations Complex from 8.30am. The organisers ask that bikers pay £2 to ride, donations are preferred to chocolate Easter eggs, with all money going to The Children’s Hospital Charity.

Annual road deaths and serious injuries at record low

Fri, 01 Apr 2011 00:00:00 GMT

The number of fatalities and serious injuries on South Yorkshire roads has fallen to a record low according to new figures.

Statistics from the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership show that the total number of people killed or seriously injured on the county’s roads in 2010 was 435, the lowest figure since South Yorkshire records began.

Casualty reduction and prevention in South Yorkshire is led by a multi agency group known as the South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership. Led by South Yorkshire Police, the Partnership has members from the four Local Authorities, Fire and Rescue, the health sector and also organisations such as the University of Sheffield, Passenger Transport Executive, Highways Agency and the Peak District National Park Authority.

The Partnership adopts a highly proactive approach to agreeing strategies which are based upon detailed analysis of a variety of data sources relating to collisions. It tasks a range of operational delivery groups, including the Safety Camera Partnership, to directly implement schemes and activities that will reduce casualties on our roads.

Compared to 2009, the latest figures show a reduction of 95 fewer people killed or seriously injured. In total 34 people died on the county’s roads last year – the lowest fatal casualty total on record. We also suffered fewer serious injuries amongst all our road users.

National and local research shows that the main causes of collisions include:

Failure to look properly
Failure to judge another persons path or speed
Irresponsible driving, (careless, reckless or in a hurry),
Speed, (either excessive speed or inappropriate speed for the road or conditions)
Poor turn or manoeuvre
Loss of control

Chief Superintendent Keith Lumley from South Yorkshire Police who is Chair of the Safer Roads Partnership said:

“The Partnership is pleased that we are continuing to achieve a reduction in the number of fatal and life threatening collisions in South Yorkshire. However although these figures have improved dramatically since county-wide figures were first recorded in 1979, we still need to do more. Behind each of these statistics is a grieving family or someone coming to terms with a life changing injury and the Safer Roads Partnership will strive to do all we can with the resources available to continue to further reduce casualties in 2011 and beyond.

“We will implement schemes that have an impact in reducing casualties which include a range of targeted educational based activities and road based engineering improvements. We will also target those drivers who speed, drink and drive, drive while under the influence of drugs, illegally use mobile phones, don’t wear seatbelts or drive in a dangerous manner through enforcement to prosecution when necessary.

“Each tragedy and its subsequent human cost reminds us that we should be constantly seeking to improve our targeting of scarce resources into those activities that have the most impact through improving our research techniques so that we gain an ever deeper and broader understanding of the circumstances that surround a collision”.

In South Yorkshire the Safer Roads Partnership has a dedicated Manager who works across the agencies to coordinate the variety of activities and align budgets and resources whenever possible.

Ken Wheat, South Yorkshire Safer Roads Partnership Manager said:

“Back in March 2000, the Government published its road safety strategy and casualty reduction targets for 2010. Our target for South Yorkshire was 439 people killed or seriously injured (a 40% reduction from the 1994-98 average of 732). To have met this target is very satisfying and reflects the hard work and dedication of all those working in the field over the years. In addition I would also like to thank the public of South Yorkshire who have played a key role in helping us to reach this target.

“Despite this success we can’t be complacent and we will proactively seek to achieve continuous improvement in this vital area of public health and wellbeing”.