BETWEEN April and June, Roads Policing Unit, supported by the civilian speed enforcement officers and other specialist teams, have carried out road checks across Essex. These checks took place in towns and villages to improve the safety of our road network and focussed on areas where speeding and collisions are more likely to take place.

In just three months, 6,914 drivers were caught speeding. That’s 1,692 in April, 2,504 in May, and 2,718 in June. 

Speeding is one of the contributing factors to fatal collisions. Even a small increase in speed can lead to longer stopping distances and if you are involved in a crash, more serious injuries.

In the same three-month period between April and June, we also recorded 7,602 road offences. These include driving under the influence, careless or dangerous driving, and MOT or insurance violations. Each of these offences carries serious consequences from fines and penalty points to, in some cases, imprisonment.

People living in these areas have welcomed the extra checks. Many say it makes them feel safer. One Basildon resident told us: “It’s brilliant to see the heightened enforcement after so many collisions on this road. You being here is keeping not only myself but my young family safe.”

Enforcement and road safety checks will continue across Essex throughout the summer months and beyond. This is part of Vision Zero, our joint ambition with road safety partners to have no fatal collisions by 2040 or sooner.

We’re asking all road users to play their part. Drive within the speed limit, never drive under the influence, and always ensure your vehicle is roadworthy. Together, we can reduce harm and make Essex’s roads safer for all.

Find out more about how you can support Vision Zero and help us save lives at: www.saferessexroads.org/vision-zero