New safety project for rural roads

Police to warn of danger bends

DRIVERS are being warned about the dangers of blind bends on rural roads as part of a new safety campaign.

Leicestershire Police and the Road Safety Partnership have launched the Think Ahead campaign following concerns raised by villagers, horse riders and cyclists.

Motorists are being urged to “expect the unexpected” when turning bends on country roads.

The campaign is being piloted in Melton before it is rolled out across Leicestershire.

Sergeant Paul Kear, of Melton police station, said: “This is an important message for all road users. Over the three year period from January 2013 to December 2015, we have had over 160 casualties across this part of Leicestershire.

“Tragically four people have lost their lives and 25 people have sustained serious injuries.

“As part of the campaign we would also like to encourage road users to be more tolerant of each other.

“At this time a year, our rural roads see an increase in cyclists and horse riders, including a lot of sports events.

“Although these can be frustrating to other road users we would urge people to take their time and be patient to ensure the safety of themselves and of other road users.”

To support the cam- paign, distinctive signs showing images of horses and cyclists will be installed in accident hotspots.

Nationally 60% of those killed in road accidents die on rural roads, government figures show.

Some 25% of drivers reported having had a near miss on a country road, while 40% have been surprised by an unexpected hazard. A third also confessed to taking a bend too fast.