Police week of action to cut road deaths

Officers are highlighting issues like speeding, not wearing a seatbelt, using a phone and drink and drug-driving.

It is part of national campaign Project Edward, which stands for Every Day Without A Road Death.

A South Yorkshire Police spokeswoman said different areas, roads and offences would be targeted throughout this week.

Sgt Bruce Yacomeni said: “In 2019, 48 people lost their lives in road traffic collisions and 929 people were involved in serious collisions in South Yorkshire.

“We all have a part in making the roads safer for everyone. We are all someone’s loved one and need to go home at the end of the day.

“Every day, we have a dedicated traffic car that patrols our roads looking for those who are driving irresponsibly or dangerously, this is part of our Operation Illuminate. 

“We only have a finite amount of resources and we have to respond to incoming emergencies and incidents, this car enables us to have a continuous pro-active presence on our roads.

“This coming week will see an increase in officers and stop sites across the districts. We will be working closely with our partners at Safer Roads South Yorkshire and Camera Safety Partnership.

“As part of the week please think about the small changes you could make to make your driving safer.”

Motorists are also asked to take the Project Edward pledge on safe driving and share them online.