‘Share The Road’ Campaign Launches

A new campaign urging all road users to respect each other has been launched by Police.

The new initiative, entitled ‘Share The Road’ is aimed at reducing the number of crashes and encouraging mutual respect among all who use the roads.

In the Harborough District officers are concentrating on making drivers more aware of motorbikes, horses and tractors, particularly on country roads.

Police patrols will be upped and life size cut-outs of all the road users displayed on notoriously dangerous routes as part of the campaign.

PC Shaun Gent, from the Safer Roads Team said:  “Now is a good time to launch the campaign because we tend to see a rise in road traffic collisions over June and July as more people are out and about during the lighter evenings and warmer weather. This is very much an educational campaign which is looking to change the way that people behave on the roads, rather than simply punishing people. This will be reflected in our operational work.”

Alan Hiscox, Director of Safety at The British Horse Society, said: “By collaborating on this new campaign we hope more drivers will be aware that when they are faced with a horse on the road they should slow down to a maximum of 15mph, be patient and ensure they pass the horse wide and slow, before driving slowly away. We also encourage riders to play their part by wearing high visibility clothing at all times and by thanking all road users that pass by safely.”

Jim Freeman, chairman of the British Motorcyclists Federation, said: “The BMF welcomes all initiatives that support the rights of vulnerable road user groups. As bike riders, we know what it’s like to be ignored by mainstream road users, so we respect those on foot, with four legs and pedals. Equally we realise that the forbearance of those on four or more wheels depends on our respecting the rules and not flouting traffic laws, designed to protect all of us.”