Stay safe on the roads

North Wales Police are reminding motorists to take extra care on the roads following a series of recent serious road traffic collisions on roads across the region.

There were six serious collisions over the weekend – four of which involved motorcyclists. Three out of the four motorcyclists sadly have injuries which are potentially life changing and life threatening.

Chief Inspector Caroline Mullen-Hurst of North Wales Police’s Operational Support Service said: “Following yet another busy weekend we will be focussing our enforcement in an attempt to reduce any further casualties and collisions by adopting a zero-tolerance approach.

“We are committed to keeping people safe on the roads of North Wales - we want them to enjoy the roads but most of all we want them to ride and drive safely and responsibly.

“Whilst the vast majority of motorists ride or drive appropriately, we will continue to focus on, with a view to prosecution, all those that ride or drive dangerously, at excess speed, overtake on solid white lines or commit any other road traffic offences.

“Whilst we cannot comment specifically on the collisions themselves; we would like to reassure the public that a thorough investigation will be carried out into every single collision and our enquiries are now underway.

“We, as the police, want everyone to enjoy the roads of North Wales as they become busier and are shared between all different types of road users.

“Our increased patrols – using marked and unmarked vehicles sees officers working 24/7 to keep the roads safe and our road safety campaigns will continue with the sole aim of attempting to reduce the number of fatal and serious collisions on the roads of North Wales. We are fully aware of concerns by local residents therefore we will also continue to address the minority who are endangering lives by their unreasonable actions.

“Road safety is the responsibility of us all - whether as a driver, motorcyclist, cyclist or pedestrian and I would like to take this opportunity to ask everybody to take extra care when out and about on the roads, to think about their behaviour and what changes they could make to improve their own safety and that of other road users.”

North Wales Police’s annual Operation Darwen campaign – which is aimed at reducing the risk of motorcycle-related deaths and serious injuries on the roads, is now underway.

Over the coming months, officers from the Roads Policing Unit, the Armed Alliance Unit, the Special Constabulary Road Safety Unit and Go Safe will be engaging with motorcyclists at popular meeting spots for enthusiasts as well as on certain routes as part of the operation.

Motorcyclists are amongst the most vulnerable groups of road users, and they are at a higher risk of injury and collision than other road users. Although a motorcyclist may not be at fault, their vulnerability invariable means that they suffer more serious injuries in a collision.

In 2021 there were 72 motorcyclists killed or seriously injured in North Wales a 2.85% increase from the previous year of 2020. The total number of motorcyclist fatalities was 7 (an increase of 40% from the previous year).

Motorcycle casualties are highly represented and on average represent 25% of all killed or seriously injured casualties within the region based on the last 3 years.

Chief Inspector Mullen-Hurst added: “We look at all motorists as part of the Op Darwen campaign, however during the spring and summer months, increased focus is given to motorcycle safety as larger numbers of motorcyclists take their bikes out to take advantage of the good weather and fantastic scenery we have here in North Wales.

“As such, motorists are being urged to be extra vigilant for motorcycles during their journeys and ensure they give sufficient room when following bikers.

“Similarly, drivers are reminded to continually check for motorcycles when moving off, or when emerging from junctions.

“Riders also have an important role to play in ensuring their own safety by travelling at an appropriate speed for the road, weather and traffic conditions, wearing high-visibility clothing, ensuring they ride within their capabilities and always wearing a helmet and other appropriate attire.

“Behind every casualty will be a family who are expecting them to come home. This campaign isn’t about spoiling people’s fun but encourages riders and drivers to be safe and competent with the aim of reducing the number of collisions.”

Motorcyclists are encouraged to visit the Wales by Bike website for information and guidance regarding courses, routes and safety advice. A number of BikeSafe workshops across North Wales are also planned for the year. Bookings can be made via www.bikesafe.co.uk

Follow the Roads Policing Team on social media via @NWPRPU or follow the hashtags #OpDarwen and #Fatal5.