Scottish police launch rural driving safety campaign
Date: 28/03/2008 12:00:00
Police in Scotland have begun a campaign to encourage users of rural roads in the country to drive more safely.
Organised by the Association of Chief Police Officers Scotland (ACPOS), the operation will see officers from the eight Scottish forces call on drivers to reduce the risk of a crash by being more aware of the dangers posed by country roads, the Press Association reports.
Police say that two-thirds of road casualties in Scotland take place on rural roads and as a result they are urging motorists to refrain from speeding and inappropriate driving on these routes.
"Our message to all drivers and particularly to younger drivers is - don't speed. Country roads present far more challenges to motorists than many realise," commented Assistant Chief Constable Jim Green, secretary of ACPOS's road policing business area.
"The consequences of speeding are not only points on your licence and a fine but - especially if you don't wear your seatbelt - death or serious injury."
Superintendent Pat Docherty, head of road policing in Strathclyde, told the Bellshill Speaker that drivers tend to believe that because rural roads are quieter they must be safer - but this is not necessarily the case, especially for inexperienced motorists.