A MAJOR push on making local roads safer has been launched across the West Midlands region.
This comes after three people were killed on the regions roads in less than a week, including an 18-year-old in Yardley.
West Midlands Police, the region’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) and the West Midlands Mayor have all vowed to do everything possible to reduce the number of people tragically and avoidably killed as a result of road traffic collisions.
Assistant Chief Constable, Mike O’Hara, said: “Each is a tragedy, which has caused untold misery for families and loved ones.
“Our thoughts are with everyone impacted, and the public should rest assured that each and every one of these tragedies will be fully investigated.
“In the West Midlands, we have set the goal to reduce road death and serious injury to zero under Vision Zero.”
The initiative sees the police alongside local councils, charities the West Midlands Combined Authority and others to achieve safer roads for everyone.
It involves focused operations in key areas, tackling the ‘fatal four’ – speeding, drink and drug driving, using a mobile phone while driving and not wearing a seatbelt - and preventing harm to the most vulnerable road users.
The PCC, Simon Foster, has reaffirmed his vow to do everything possible to reduce the number of people tragically and avoidably killed as a result of road traffic collisions across the West Midlands.
Mr Foster, said: “My thoughts are with the victims, who have been tragically and avoidably killed and seriously injured in road traffic collisions, and their families.
“Preventing and tackling crime and anti-social behaviour on our roads, promoting road harm reduction and reducing the number of people tragically and avoidably killed and seriously injured on our roads, are top priorities.
“That action includes robust enforcement by policing, but it also includes improved public transport, more active travel, lower traffic neighbourhoods, an improved regulatory environment and all of us being mindful of the duty of care, that we all owe to other road users.”
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “It’s a tragedy that so many innocent lives are lost on our streets because of the dangerous behaviour of some mindless motorists. This cannot go on.
“I promised to do whatever it takes to prevent people being tragically and avoidably killed and seriously injured on our roads. I intend to deliver on that promise.
“I’ve also spoken to all WMCA member authorities and it was agreed that working together to eliminate road danger is a priority for the West Midlands as a whole.
“This is an issue that is blighting our region which is why immediate and unwavering focus is needed.
“I will bring together all partners in the region to help us achieve Vision Zero. No death on our roads is acceptable, that’s why we must strive to protect everyone across the network.”
