NeighbourHood Watch Message – Belt up and keep safe on Kent’s roads
Motorists who fail to wear a seatbelt will be targeted by Kent Police as part of a national road safety campaign.
From Monday 12 June to Sunday 25 June 2023 the force will be supporting an operation led by the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC) to educate and enforce the law against those who fail to belt up or ensure children in their vehicle are safely secured.
Failing to wear a seatbelt is one of the ‘fatal factors’ that contribute to the highest number of road collisions resulting in deaths and serious injuries, along with speeding, driving whilst under the influence or drink or drugs, and using a mobile phone or other electronic device at the wheel. It is also the only factor that does not directly cause a collision but does have consequences for the severity of injuries suffered.
The traffic operation in Kent will see officers from the Road Safety Unit supported by other roads policing colleagues and volunteers from the Special Constabulary take action whilst also enforcing other traffic laws. The safety camera team on behalf of the Kent and Medway Safety Camera Partnership will also be on the lookout for seatbelt infringements.
Chief Inspector Craig West, Head of Roads Policing, said: ‘Road safety is a year-round priority for Kent Police and also one of the main focuses of our Safer Summer initiative along with preventing violent crime and antisocial behaviour.
‘During the same seatbelt operation last year we took action against 272 drivers or adult passengers, with a further eight reported for failing to ensure a child in their vehicle was suitably restrained. This is unacceptable and needlessly puts lives at risk.
‘Whilst the vast majority of road users appreciate the importance of wearing seatbelts, there are unfortunately some who believe the worst will never happen to them. Sadly the worst does sometimes happen, and that is why we are supporting this important national campaign.’
Click here for further support and advice relating to road safety and here for more information about #SaferSummer.
Search #BeltUp on Twitter for more on the national NPCC campaign.
