Police plea after 'truly tragic' month on roads

People are being reminded of the dangers linked to roads after a series of fatal crashes in the South West.

Devon and Cornwall Police said its officers had attended "a number of very serious crashes" in the last month, some which had proved fatal.

Ch Insp Dean Drury said a loss of life in a crash was "devastating" for the families and friends of those involved.

He said the five main causes of serious injury and death on the region's roads were excessive speed, not wearing a seatbelt, using a mobile phone while driving, being under the influence or drink or drugs while driving, and not being physically or medically fit to drive.

Mr Drury said: "Due to the good weather we have been having, we have seen more people out on our roads.

"Tragically some of these collisions have resulted in a tragic loss of life, including several young people, which has been devastating for the families and friends of those involved."

Ch Insp Drury said the "vast majority" of road users were safe, responsible and respectful.

He added: "Please do not think it won't happen to you, as things can change in a split second.

"Please drive safely and consider other road users, especially those who are more vulnerable such as pedestrians, horse riders, cyclists and motorcyclists."

Mr Drury said the past few weeks had been "truly tragic" and said the "last thing officers wanted to do was to knock on any more doors to tell someone a loved one was not coming home".

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