Throughout July, West Midlands Police (WMP) have been supporting a national campaign aimed at improving road safety and reduce the number of fatalities and serious injuries on our roads.
Operation Spotlight is a national road safety initiative aimed at reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured on the UK’s roads.
Evidence shows that July sees the highest number of people killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions, with the four biggest contributing factors being:
- driving under the influence of drink and drugs
- using a mobile phone while driving
- speeding
- not wearing a seatbelt
Last month officers have carried out 421 roadside alcohol and drug tests, with 190 people arrested for drink or drug driving. 32 of these people were arrested during operations carried out after England World Cup matches.
Superintendent Jack Hadley, Head of Road Policing said: “One wrong decision could cost someone their life. Answering that phone call while you’re driving without hands free, not wearing a seatbelt because it’s uncomfortable, going over the speed limit, or driving after having had a drink are all decisions that do have terrible consequences.
“Last year over 1120 people were killed or seriously injured on West Midlands roads, this is totally unacceptable and we must do something drastic to stop this happening.
“We want everyone to feel safe when using the roads and motorways of the West Midlands.
“Over the summer we will continue to carry out operations targeting those that continue to break the law and put other lives at risk.
“We will continue to work with our communities and partners, including local councils, charities and transport for West Midlands to create safer roads for everyone.”
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