Safer roads operation in Rotherham

All year-round we take a zero tolerance approach to drivers posing a risk on the roads of South Yorkshire, but as Christmas approaches, with busier roads, we know drivers are more likely to take those risks. Rotherham response officers carried out an operation on Wednesday 13 December to ensure those posing a risk on our roads were stopped in their tracks. Officers were out in the Aston and Swallownest areas engaging with drivers and members of the public following a number of recent serious and road traffic collisions.

During the morning, a total of 78 vehicles were stopped along two static check points, with the drivers’ details and vehicle conditions checked. Officers also provided advice around ensuring vehicles are winter ready and driving to the conditions in bad weather. Officers also requested, where legislation permitted, for drivers to complete a breathalyser test for alcohol.

We are pleased that of the vehicles checked, no drivers were found to be driving over the prescribed limit for alcohol. One motorist was issued with a Traffic Offence Report for driving whilst using a mobile phone. Reducing casualties and fatalities on our roads is a partnership effort.

Throughout the operation, the South Yorkshire Safety Camera Partnership carried out a number of speed enforcement checks on local roads. Of the checks completed, 19 speed-related driving offences were recorded, with one motorist found to be driving at a speed of 64mph in a 50mph zone. Leading the operation, Sergeant Benjamin Robinson explains more about the force’s approach to road safety during the winter months.

He said: “Nationally, we see an increase in the number of people taking risks by choosing to drive after consuming alcohol over the Christmas period. “Unfortunately, this is no different within South Yorkshire and sadly we see an increase in the number of road traffic collisions that take place, contributed to by alcohol and/or drugs. “The forces annual campaign sees officers from across various teams working together alongside our partner agencies to raise awareness of the dangers of drink and drugs and other distractions on the road by carrying out operations such as this one across the county to make our roads a safer place.

“Our message is clear, if you are found to consume alcohol or drugs and then get behind the wheel of a vehicle, you will be prosecuted. Everyone has the right to enjoy their Christmas, and this means getting home safe to their family and loved ones without the risk of being seriously injured or killed as a result of a drink driver. “If you ever suspect that someone may be driving whilst under the influence of drink or drugs, then please contact us straight away on 999.

You can also submit intelligence, if it’s not an emergency, via our online reporting portal or by calling 101″.

PC Reiss Thompson, who took part in the operation, added: “Road safety campaigns such as this one are increasingly important over the winter months and it has been invaluable speaking with members of the public throughout the day about the concerns that they have.

“We are very pleased with the results but know that the work doesn’t stop here; if you see officers out and about over this festive period, please stop and speak to them, we want to help.”