Wiltshire Police Urge Greater Respect Among Road Users

Monday, 19 August 2024 06:05

The leader of Wiltshire Police's Serious Collision Investigation Team, Sergeant Rich Hatch, is urging road users to show more respect and consideration for one another to improve safety on the roads.

Sgt Hatch expressed concern over the lack of courtesy drivers often display, noting, "It's disappointing to see how little respect we show each other on the roads."

The call for more excellent road etiquette comes in the wake of alarming statistics: over 3,000 people die on the UK's roads annually, and in 2023 alone, 255 people were killed or seriously injured on Wiltshire's roads.

Sgt Hatch encourages drivers to reassess their driving habits, emphasising the severe consequences of reckless behaviour. “A conviction for causing death by dangerous driving can now result in a life sentence, equivalent to that of a murder conviction," he stated.

Acknowledging drivers' pressures and congestion, Sgt Hatch highlighted the importance of kindness and patience on the roads.

"It seems that many drivers have forgotten to be considerate. Whether it’s allowing someone to merge safely, giving space to cyclists and motorcyclists, or waiting for a pedestrian to cross—even when the light is green for you—these simple acts can prevent accidents. Vulnerable road users deserve our care and attention."

He stressed that many drivers view other road users as mere inconveniences rather than potential hazards. "One small mistake can lead to the loss of a life, with devastating consequences for all involved," Sgt Hatch warned.

This appeal aligns with the force's ongoing 'No Excuse' road safety campaign, which targets the 'fatal five' offences most likely to cause serious harm: speeding, drunk and drug driving, mobile phone use while driving, not wearing a seatbelt and careless or dangerous driving.

Sgt Hatch's message of kindness on the roads is deeply personal, stemming from a compassionate act that saved his father's life in the 1990s. After his father was involved in a collision, a police officer took the time to understand the cause of the accident. "By treating my father with respect and recognising that good people can make mistakes, the officer discovered that my father had a blind spot in his vision. Further investigation revealed a brain tumour caused it."

This life-changing experience inspired Sgt Hatch to pursue a career in road policing, where he has served for nearly 25 years.