Devon police remind drivers to put fuel in car

Plus keep hands on wheel and other tips

Devon and Cornwall Police is calling on residents and visitors to behave sensibly and respect other road users.

The force wants drivers to take extra care, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy and that people are fit to drive, as well as modifying driving behaviour in response to local conditions. The police see a lot of carnage and have to pick up the pieces, so they've spent time this week reminding people to take safety steps such as using the steering wheel correctly, filling up with fuel and keeping to speed limits.

In a statement, the forces reminds drivers to "ensure they keep both hands on the wheel and be ready to react to changes in road conditions such as standing water or sudden gusts of wind. Be cautious when passing high sided vehicles on exposed stretches of road. Speed restrictions are a limit, not a target. Keep your speed down and leave more room between your vehicle and the one in front.

Drivers should allow themselves extra time when travelling and ensure their vehicle is fully maintained and up to the task. Double check your brakes and oil, ensure all your lights are working, your tyres have good tread depth and you have got plenty of fuel."

Chief superintendent Nikki Leaper, head of alliance operations, said: “We really want to encourage drivers on our roads to make sensible choices to ensure they are safe. We’ve recently seen a number of collisions where road users have been injured or even sadly killed on our roads and with around 4,700 casualties recorded each year, it is important road users take preventative steps to keep themselves and those around them safe.

“Any collision can have devastating consequences, but by following these measures you will be helping to keep yourself and others safe on the roads of Devon and Cornwall.”

Alison Hernandez, police and crime commissioner for Devon and Cornwall and national lead on road safety for the Association of PCCs said: “Our roads are for everyone, whether they be cyclists, riders or walkers. Here in the Westcountry many are single track and with twists and turns. Drivers need to be patient and attentive. Creating a safer road network is something every driver can help with by taking more care, allowing more time for journeys and obeying the law.”