Police fear increase in serious collisions during holiday season

Police have revealed fears that an increase in cars on the road as people holiday closer to home will lead to a rise in serious injury and fatal collisions.

Dyfed-Powys Police has released figures showing an increase in the number of serious crashes attended by its Roads Policing Units over the past three months as people enjoyed the easing of Covid restrictions and the freedom to travel.

These figures show the number of people killed or seriously injured in collisions rose sharply from seven in March, to 17 in April, 18 in May and 21 in June.

And officers have revealed concerns that the trend will only continue.

Chief Inspector for Specialist Operations Tom Sharville said: “May was a particularly bad month weather-wise, but despite this we still saw an increase in vehicles on our roads as people started to enjoy the freedom to travel again.

“Sadly, with this came an increase in collisions, which we are anticipating will continue to rise over the summer as more and more people avoid the uncertainty of overseas travel and holiday in the UK instead.”

Officers attended 91 road traffic incidents across the force in May – the highest monthly figure so far this year – with 14 serious injuries recorded and four deaths.

“What we all need to remember is that these are not just statistics,” said CI Sharville.

“Those fatalities relate to four people who never made it home to their loved ones. Four families who faced the unimaginable trauma of opening the door to a police officer delivering a death message, and four groups of friends, relatives and colleagues grieving the loss of someone they cared for.

“And they could have been any one of us.”

Proactive policing plans are in place to keep road-users safe over the summer, including Op Darwen which focusses on motorbike safety, and Op Snap, which allows the submission of dash-cam footage of dangerous drivers for investigation.

But CI Sharville is also urging drivers themselves to do their bit to help ease the pressure on roads policing teams.

“What we are asking is that you’re aware of the environment and other road users around you, and that you pay full attention at all times,” he said.

“You might be travelling along roads you’re unfamiliar with, or trying to navigate new routes, but please don’t let this put you and your family at risk of injury or worse.

“We want you to reach your destination safely, whether you’re a tourist enjoying the beautiful areas Dyfed-Powys has to offer for the first time, or you’re a local commuting on the same road you use every day.

“Increased traffic means an increased risk to all road-users, so please don’t be complacent, and keep your wits about you.

“Our officers don’t want to be knocking on your door.”