Police issue reminder to drivers as increase in vehicles seen on Derbyshire roads during lockdown

Over recent days there has been an increase in the number of vehicles on the roads – around 20 per cent higher than in previous weeks.

While journeys should still only be made if they are essential a number of large employers are now re-opening, with a corresponding increase in vehicles.

But with such low usage of vehicles it is ‘absolutely critical’ that drivers are checking their vehicles before heading out on to the roads and ensure they are aware of other, new road users.

Chief Inspector Jim Thompson, said: “Over the last week we have seen an increase in vehicle usage across the county.

“Many cars, vans and motorbikes will have not been used and it is essential that these are checked before being used.

“There are huge numbers of videos, from the likes of the AA and RAC, online and you should be checking, as a minimum, your tyres – both pressure and tread depth – and any essential liquids such as oil and brake fluid.

“When out on the road we have seen some large increases in the numbers of pedestrians and cyclists – with many more children out on the roads.

“It is absolutely crucial that people are aware of these vulnerable road users, ensure that they are driving to the speed limit and appropriately to the road conditions.”

While there has been a substantial decrease in the number of vehicles on the roads there has been an increase in some of the speeds.

Chief Inspector Thompson, said: “We know that speeding is one of the four most common causes of fatal and serious crashes on our roads and my officers are all too aware of the tragic consequences.

“While the number of vehicles on the road has changed the speed limit has not, stopping distances haven’t changed and reaction time hasn’t changed.

“We have officers from our roads policing unit and casualty reduction team out in the community each day monitoring speed, checking vehicles and removing them if they are dangerous or uninsured or taxed.”