Overview of ongoing road safety work in the Scottish Borders

"Much like last year, your local area commander, Chief Inspector Vinnie Fisher, has very kindly handed over control of their column to myself so that I can provide an overview of ongoing road safety work in the Scottish Borders, as well as raising awareness about the type of issues that we are responding to and which are having an impact on road safety.

"One of our current priorities is to engage with older road users, in particular, motorists and ensure they still feel confident and capable of operating their vehicle and are not living with any impairments or conditions that may impact their effectiveness behind the wheel.

"To be clear, I am in no way suggesting that older drivers cannot or should not drive. What I am asking is that, if you are an older motorist then please get regular checks of your vision and if you are experiencing any health issues then refrain from getting behind the wheel.

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"Across the country, road policing officers regularly work with a number of key partners to host older driver awareness events, where motorists who fall within this category can come along, speak to us about any apprehensions they may have about driving and receive lots of useful advice aimed at keeping them safe when on the roads.

"I’d really encourage people to come along to one of these events, whenever they are taking place in your area.

"Details of these will be posted on our social media channels, but you can also get in touch with us via 101 to find out about when and where your nearest event is happening.

"Protecting all vulnerable road users is of a paramount importance and within the Borders there are a number of routes that are popular with motor vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians alike.

"My plea to all of those using motorised transportation is to always be aware of your surroundings, observe speed limits and never drive in a manner which places you, or others at risk. This, of course, includes drink or drug driving, which, should you be caught behind the wheel while under the influence, will result in your arrest, a criminal record and the loss of your licence.

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"Please also give cyclists plenty of space when passing and always be vigilant when moving off from junctions or any other stationary position.

"To cyclists, I would ask that when out on your bike, you ensure you remain visible at all times and are wearing appropriate clothing and having suitable reflective lighting on the cycle, when you’re out and about.

"Pedestrians also have a vital role to play in staying safe when using our road networks by wearing clothing that keeps them visible if walking in restricted light and only crossing roads at designated crossing areas. Please make sure you do not attempt to cross a road from behind a stationary vehicle, as this will limit your visibility to motorists.

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"This is particularly important around schools, so we would encourage parents and guardians to discuss this matter with children in their care and ensure they stay safe when going to, or returning from school.

"While we are quickly approaching springtime, we remain, at present in winter and as such, we may still face adverse weather conditions, which, in turn, impact upon driving conditions.

"It is absolutely essential that any vehicle setting off on a journey during difficult conditions, such as heavy rain, snow or fog, is roadworthy so please make sure they have a valid MOT certificate and regularly inspect your tyres tread and pressure, check that your lights are all in working order, as well as topping up screen-wash and oil when required.

"When driving in such conditions, please keep your speed at an appropriate level, which might be below the speed limit for that road. It may be a route you know extremely well, but ice or surface water change they dynamic significantly and make driving at the speed limit hazardous. Always take a cautious approach.

"We all have a role to play in terms of road safety and if we all do our bit, we can reduce collisions and casualties on the Borders road network."