It's up to us all - OPCC launches rural road safety campaign ahead of winter

Working alongside the NFU (National Farmers’ Union), the campaign will share advice from the broad range of individuals who occupy rural roads along with those who work to keep users safe.

The core message is that it is the responsibility of all those who take to rural roads to make them safer and the campaign will encourage all users to consider their actions, particularly at a time of the year when conditions are unpredictable.

Deputy Police and Crime Commissioner Leo Hammond said: “Our rural roads have a unique character and it is vitally important that all users are always mindful of that.

“Whether you are encountering narrow lanes, blind bends or abruptly changing speed limits, the environment requires absolute concentration.

“That is even more vital when you consider the range of road users you would not typically encounter in such challenging circumstances in more built-up areas, such as horse riders, cyclists, tractors and other agricultural machinery.

“Thirty-eight people died on our roads last year and that is completely unacceptable. With greater consideration and care, such a number is most certainly avoidable.

“It is up to all of us to ensure our roads are safer places for each other.”

NFU York East County adviser Poppy Smith said: “We are proud to support this campaign because improving safety on our rural roads is something that affects every member of our communities.

“Farmers and farm workers use rural roads every day and see first-hand the risks that come with narrow lanes, blind bends and a mix of traffic that can include cars, tractors, livestock vehicles, cyclists and horse riders.

“That’s why we’re backing this campaign alongside our own winter wise rural road safety campaign and urging general road users and the farming community to play their part. Slow down, stay alert and be patient. Every road user has a responsibility to help prevent tragedies and make our rural roads safer for everyone.”

The campaign will feature contributions from farmers, Speed Watch groups, horse riders, emergency services and local authorities. There will be input from those close to someone who lost their life in an incident on a rural road.