Norfolk Police speak on road safety after fatal accidents in Norfolk

Norfolk Police have released data and voiced their concerns over road safety after 15 people died on the county's roads since January 1.

The force said it was "acutely aware of the increase in fatalities that we have experienced", and that it was "conscious of the impact this has on local communities."

Twelve fatal collisions have occurred since January 1 2023, resulting in 15 deaths across Norfolk - in comparison to 2022 which saw 44 fatal collisions across the year.

Investigations are currently ongoing in to how and why these collisions have occurred. Early indications suggest the collisions have been mostly attributed to driver error which fits with the wider national picture.

This could be failing to look properly at junctions, incorrectly judging another person’s speed or direction, poor manoeuvres or travelling too close to the vehicle in front.

The most common cause of fatal collisions in Norfolk in 2022 was loss of control 26 per cent, closely followed by failing to look properly 21 per cent.

Chief Inspector Jon Chapman said, “This number of fatal collisions in such a short space of time is concerning.

“The Roads and Armed Policing Team work tirelessly to reduce the risks on Norfolk’s roads. Officers engage with members of public daily to ensure they are equipped with the necessary knowledge to drive safely and reduce the threat of being involved in a serious collision.

“We work alongside the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC) throughout the year to promote and action various campaigns aimed at raising awareness of common collision causing factors including the fatal four.

“There is a shared responsibility amongst drivers to keep each other safe. Your choices have a direct impact on those around you. It is not just your life you are risking when you rush your decision making at junctions or fail to spot hazards as they appear on the road around you.”

A lack of concentration at any point of your journey can have catastrophic consequences.

Roads and Armed Policing Sgt, Jordan Pokorny said: “So far 2023 has seen a worrying amount of KSI (killed and seriously injured) collisions around the county. It is disappointing to see that some drivers are still not taking care when using the roads. Our officers have seen a significant increase in caseloads which is taking its toll, but we endeavour to support all families following these horrible tragedies.”

Norfolk Police urged drivers to take care when driving and to remain alert throughout their journeys. Take time when making decisions at junctions and ensure that you have read the situation accurately before making your manoeuvre.

It can be tempting to check your phone or sat nav and become distracted by passengers but this can result in a missed hazard and ultimately a collision. Hands-free phone calls or loud music can also reduce your levels of concentration and the ability to be perceptive of your surrounding environment.

Road safety is tackled in partnership with Norfolk County Council who are responsible for setting the county’s speed limits, maintaining the condition of our roads and making road safety improvements. If you have concerns about a particular stretch of road or area, you are encouraged to contact your local parish or town council to express your thoughts.