Fewer fatal collisions on Wiltshire roads in 2023
The number of collisions in the county fell by a quarter last year
The number of fatal collisions on Wiltshire's roads fell by a quarter in 2023.
In 2022, 28 collisions resulted in someone losing their life on the county's roads but that number dropped to 21 last year.
Wiltshire Police ran a summer campaign in 2023 focusing on the 'Fatal Five' offences and working to keep our roads as safe as possible.
It reflects a 'proactive' approach from the Force in tackling people driving without care on the roads.
Acting Inspector Will Ayres says that the drop is positive news but insists those who have died in the accidents are more than just statistics.
"Each fatality is a person who is loved and missed by many – somebody’s mum or dad, brother, sister, aunt, uncle, cousin, grandparent and friend. And that is so important to keep at the forefront of our minds and that is why we feel so passionate about the work we do.
"We will continue to target those most likely to cause harm on the roads and prevent further families from being devastated by the loss of a loved one,” he said.
Chief Constable Catherine Roper says her officers have impressed her with their dedication to dealing with drivers committing offences on the roads "robustly".
"It is this ongoing commitment which has contributed to a drop in the number of fatal collisions and injuries in Wiltshire.
"My officers know all too well the devastation that a single death on our roads can cause and they will continue to work tirelessly to improve road safety in the county."
Police and Crime Commissioner Philip Wilkinson says one death on the roads is one too many.
“This reduction is a really positive step forward, and it’s clear that positive, proactive policing from the RPU and our community speedwatch teams is making Wiltshire’s roads safer.
“One fatality is one too many, and every death on our roads has a devastating effect on those left behind and those emergency service workers who deal directly with the aftermath, so we must do all we can to try and minimise this with robust policing on our roads," he said.