A concerning number of serious and fatal road traffic collisions this year has prompted Wiltshire police to underline the importance of following basic road safety. In 2022, Wiltshire Police attended 13 fatal and serious road traffic collisions, where pedestrians were involved. And so far in 2023 officers have already attended eight fatal and serious collisions involving pedestrians.
There have been several incidents in Marlborough High Street this year, some involving pedestrians and not a month goes by without parked cars leaving the central parking area and crashing into the south side of the High Street. With the busy summer season ahead of us, particularly on market days, pedestrians and drivers in the High Street would do well to follow the following timely reminders.
Sgt Rich Hatch from Wiltshire Police’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit said: “Paying attention to simple road safety rules is so important. We are appealing to all parents, schools, carers and the community to take more care. Please seek to educate your loved ones about interacting with traffic whilst on foot.
This applies to youngsters and older people alike, it’s everyone’s responsibility. There are some simple rules that have been around for decades which will go a long way to saving lives. Please remember that when approaching a road as a pedestrian, we all have a duty of care to each other.
Always stop, look and listen before crossing the road. Also whenever possible use official pedestrian crossings – they are there to help us safely cross the roads.”
He added that headphones or earbuds should be used with caution.
“Ask yourself if your music or podcast is worth it. Just press pause and take responsibility for yourself. Remember every road user has a duty of care to each other – you are better off being five minutes late and apologising for this, than no longer being with your family.”
Road safety advice is available on the Wiltshire Police website and the government’s THINK! road safety site.
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