South Yorkshire Police appeal for drivers to stop speeding on the quieter roads during lockdown

Officers are urging drivers to ‘slow down’ as some motorists continue to exploit the quieter roads across South Yorkshire.
By Lloyd Bent
Published 7th Apr 2020, 06:00 BST
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With people being urged to travel for essential reasons only, some see the emptier roads as an opportunity to speed - putting themselves and others at risk.

Roads Policing Inspector Jason Booth said driving in this manner can lead to unnecessary strain on not only police, but NHS resources.

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He added: “Since the public has been advised to stay at home, we have already seen numerous serious collisions and road accidents in which we believe speed was a factor.

Police have asked drivers to slow down on South Yorkshire roads, which are quieter during the coronavirus lockdown.Police have asked drivers to slow down on South Yorkshire roads, which are quieter during the coronavirus lockdown.
Police have asked drivers to slow down on South Yorkshire roads, which are quieter during the coronavirus lockdown.

“Not only are these drivers putting themselves and other roads users at risk, but should their behaviour result in an accident, they are also tying up police and NHS resources.

“A serious road traffic collision can require multiple police officers, ambulances, fire engines, as well as resources from the local authority, alongside the doctors and nurses who will care for those taken to hospital.

“The managing of a collision scene can take up to several hours of an officer’s time. There is then the behind the scenes work, which may include forensics and time investigating the circumstances.

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“I am urging you to drive safely and allow us to be available to help those in need and focus on our fight against Covid-19.”

The government has instructed people only to leave their homes to go shopping for basic necessities, to do one form of exercise a day, any medical need including caring for a vulnerable person, or for travelling to and from work, but only where you cannot work from home.

Insp Booth added: “The single most important action we can all take, in fighting coronavirus, is to stay at home in order to protect the NHS and save lives.

“We know the majority of people are adhering to the guidelines and I would like to thank those who are, and remind those who are not following the guidelines that we are out there and we will question you.”