Speed cameras ‘not to blame for rise in deaths’
DEATHS on the county’s roads have jumped nearly 90 per cent since speed cameras were turned off.
But Northamptonshire Police says there are no factors linking the jump in fatalities to speed cameras being switched off.
A total of 36 lives were lost on the county’s roads in 2012 (January 1 to December 31) compared to 19 in 2011.
The figures represent the first full calendar year since speed cameras were switched off after Northamptonshire County Council voted to disband the casualty reduction partnership. The decision was made to save the county council cash.
However, Northamptonshire Police have refused to blame the increase in road deaths on the switch-off.
Deputy Chief Constable Suzette Davenport said a variety of reasons had been identified, but refused to criticise the decision to turn off speed cameras.
She said: “Officers from our Collision Investigation Team are tasked with establishing the facts behind fatal collisions on our roads and so far no common themes have been identified.
“A variety of possible contributory factors, including distraction, fatigue, excess alcohol, inappropriate speed, vehicle defects and weather conditions have been identified in those investigations.
“We continue to work with our partners to ensure the roads are as safe as possible and would urge everyone who uses the roads, be they pedestrian, passenger, driver or rider, to think road safety at all times.
“A fatal or serious injury road traffic collision can have a massive impact on the people and loved ones of those involved and it is the duty of every motorist to make sure they act responsibly while behind the wheel of their car.”
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Sunday 19 May 2013
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