North East pupils join call for better road safety

Drivers in the North East are being urged to slow down and to drive below the limit, particularly in built-up and residential areas, ahead of the peak season for child collisions.

Data shows that child casualty numbers typically increase through the middle of the year, between May and September, with numbers peaking in July.

That’s why Road Safety GB North East (RSGB NE) has launched its summer campaign to keep children safe – with the support from two of the region’s schools.

Pupils at St Bede’s Catholic Primary School in Sacriston, Durham, and at Linthorpe Community Primary School in Middlesbrough have shared video messages for both pedestrians and motorists.

They are urging drivers to slow down and to drive below the limit, particularly in built-up and residential areas, to put phones out of sight and to watch for people stepping out.

The pupils have also called on youngsters to take extra care on the roads, urging them to stop, look, listen, and think before stepping out.

Samantha Clarke, headteacher of St Bede’s, said the children were eager to share their road safety messages.

The headteacher said: “The safety of our pupils, and all children, is of paramount importance to us, so we regularly talk to them about road safety and encourage them to think about how they can best protect themselves and others.

“We were very keen to support the campaign and help spread some good advice. Our pupils were able to share their own experiences and road safety messages to raise awareness, so we very much hope they make people think and help to reduce casualty numbers on the roads.”

Paul Fussey, Linthorpe Primary teacher, said: “We would like all drivers to put their mobile phones in the glove compartment and to drive with full awareness. 

“Our pupils have some strong feelings and intelligent thoughts on road safety, so we were proud of them for sharing them and hope they help to reduce casualty figures on the roads.”

Data shows that more than 2,600 children have been injured or killed on North East roads in the past five years. 

However, in 2021, no children were killed on North East roads,

Peter Slater, chair of RSGB NE, said: “At this time of year, children and young people are out and about more and we typically see the number of collisions rise, where child pedestrians or cyclists are injured.

“Nobody goes out intending to injure a child, but it can so easily happen if you’re driving too fast or you’re distracted and not paying attention. 

“The majority of collisions occur simply because either the child or the adult has not been looking properly. 

“If you’re driving, slow down and be prepared for children stepping out. Remember, it can happen to you, and nobody wants that on their conscience. 

“And if you’re a parent, talk to your children about road safety. It could just save their life.”

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