Road Safety Campaign Intensifies in Devon and Cornwall

Police in Devon and Cornwall are increasing road safety checks. According to Devon and Cornwall Police, this action is part of a week-long initiative coordinated by the Vision Zero South West Road Safety Partnership. This partnership, comprising emergency services and various other organizations, has stated its goal is to halve the number of fatalities and severe injuries in the region by 2030, with the ultimate aim of eliminating them entirely. During this week of focused activity, educational programs for schoolchildren are also being conducted, alongside specific police operations such as additional speed camera patrols, as reported by officials. The partnership was established in 2021, a year when 47 road deaths and 647 serious injuries were documented. Recent statistics for 2023 indicate a minor rise, with 48 fatalities and 702 serious injuries. Adrian Leisk, a representative of the partnership, conveyed that members remain undeterred, noting that the initiative is still in its early stages and requires further effort. He stated: “I’ve knocked on doors to tell people that their loved ones are not coming home, I’ve also stood at crash scenes surveying the devastation, so, personally, I have bought into this.” Leisk added: “We need to work harder; we need to engage more partners. “We are going to Westminster to highlight what we are doing down in the South West because we are recognised now across the country as driving innovation and changing the way we approach road-related harm.”” Christ Boston, representing the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, described the objective as straightforward. He commented: “If we can get to one person today, and get that message across to not drink and drive, not do drugs, to put that seat belt on for a short or long journey, look after each other in the car, and be a sensible driver, then we have done some good.”