The four main causes of KSI (Killed or Seriously Injured) on our roads are known by the emergency services as The FATAL FOUR.
1. Inappropriate speed
Even the difference of a few miles per hour can mean the difference between life and death. The speed limit is not a target, you should drive at a speed that suits the conditions and the type of road. For example, if it’s foggy or raining, if you’re driving near a school or in a town centre, then driving at the speed limit could be too fast.
Make sure that you’re driving at a safe speed at all times, and never exceed the speed limit.
2. Using a mobile phone
You can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine if you use a hand-held phone when driving - making calls, texting, reading posts, playing games, taking photos, anything.
You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last 2 years.
The law still applies to you if you’re stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
You can only use a hand-held phone if you’re safely parked with the engine switched off or you need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop
What about hands free? Even though hands-free kits are legal, it is also worth knowing that tests have shown people using these kits can be as distracted as if they were driving drunk. Don't use one.
3. Not wearing a seatbelt
You’re twice as likely to die in a crash if you don’t wear a seatbelt. So...make sure you and your passengers are wearing a seatbelt or secured in a car seat.
Children should use a child car seat until they’re 12 years old or 135 centimetres tall, whichever comes first.
Children over 12 or more than 135cm tall must wear a seat belt.
4. Drink/drug driving
When you drink, it takes longer for your brain to receive messages from your eye, and processing information becomes more difficult. All of these can significantly impact your driving. Driving = NO alcohol.
-------------------------
Further reading
THINK! provides road safety information for road users.
ROSPA - road safety is your responsibility.
BRAKE - the road safety charity.
Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Services - the Fatal Four (video)