DRIVE DRINK AND DRUG FREE
The personal consequences of driving after drinking or taking drugs is the focus of a new campaign aimed at raising awareness among 17 to 24 year olds.
Young people are over represented in collision statistics in the West Mercia region which includes Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin. Figures from the Safer Roads Partnership indicate that young drivers are involved in 42% of collisions that have alcohol or drugs as a contributory factor. The campaign is designed to reach out to young people to raise awareness of what could happen to them if they make the decision to drive after drinking or taking drugs.
The immediate consequences for a person of they are caught drink or drug driving include a minimum 12 month driving ban, up to 6 months in prison, a fine of up to £5,000 and a criminal record. However, a conviction for drink or drug driving can have a major impact on the future prospects of a young person. For example, it may lead to job loss and significant problems when applying for a job in the future.
TAKE CONTROL
We are currently running a campaign aimed at reducing the number of collisions involving motorcyclists and moped users on the roads in West Mercia. As part of the campaign, we are offering a range of training courses, either free or heavily subsidised, which seek to address the needs of powered two wheel users, from moped users who have recently passed their test to a full skill enhancement course for experiences motorcyclists. The 'Take Control' programme is delivered by qualified instructors from 90-One Education.
The training is delivered by qualified and professional instructors from 90-One Education. Riders interested in finding out more or to book a place can call 0845 370 9191 or email info@90-one.com
The 'Take Control' programme forms part of a wider road safety campaign. Priority biker routes have been identified and signs will be put in place to highlight the routes where the likelihood of motorcyclists being involved in collisions resulting in death or serious injury are the highest.
BODY BAGS
The ‘Body Bags’ campaign is an awareness raising campaign aimed at young drivers. The campaign focuses on risky driving behaviour and highlights the possible outcomes when young people are distracted while behind the wheel.
The campaign focuses on three risky driving behaviours: texting or using a mobile phone while driving; being distracted by music and selecting a track while driving; and the use of excessive or inappropriate speed. These may be
seen by many as safe and acceptable, but are actually highly risky and dangerous, and can lead to serious consequences such as being involved in a car crash and killing another person.
BE CYCLEWISE
Over the past three years (2005-2007) 8% of all recorded collisions within West Mercia involved pedal cycles, whilst 12% involved pedestrians. Our pedestrian and cyclist campaign was launched in June 2008 to try to address this problem. A third of all pedal cycle and pedestrian casualties were in the 10-19 age bracket and last year alone there were 4 fatalities involving cycles and 13 pedestrian fatalities. As part of the campaign we will also be offering free ‘Cyclewise’ safety packs - high visibility fluorescent bags containing reflectors, puncture repair kits and other items to help stay safe on the roads. These will be available from local road safety officers through school cycle training.
To target a wider group, including the older age group and other motorists to make them more aware of the risks that are present when sharing the road with other users, advertising on buses, within leisure centres and cinemas will be running through June and July.
Click here to download one of our pdf posters.