Protecting our communities together.
Recent research identified that over 70% of drivers in one study admitted to speeding (Stradling) and in other studies (Webster & Wells) the figure was 85%. Drivers still distinguish between ordinary, safe speeding drivers and dangerous speeding drivers. By many, speed is almost approved of - people can handle it, it's often necessary and many enjoy it - driving at 40mph in a 30mph zone was seen in one study as more acceptable than dropping litter (TNS).
Building on “Operation Abuja” this months casualty reduction focus continues looking at the problem of speeding vehicles. Excess speed is a clear causation of collisions and increases the likely hood of serious injury and death, enforcement is intended to reduce harm on the counties roads.
Points to note
- Exceeding the speed limit or travelling too fast for the conditions is a contributory factor in over 856 deaths and 33,030 injuries every year (RCGB 2006).
- On average, nearly nine people die every day on Britain's roads.
- Every driver can make a difference just by slowing down a few miles per hour and observing speed limits.
- The law of physics dictate that the higher the speed at impact, the more energy must be rapidly absorbed by hard metal, soft flesh and brittle bone.
- 68% of crashes where people are killed or injured happen on roads where the speed limit is 40mph or less (RCGB 2006).
Useful links
Think! Road Safety Advice
Website: www.thinkroadsafety.gov.uk/index.htm
WCC Road Safety Advice
Website: www.warwickshire.gov.uk