“We have sadly seen a number of fatal road traffic collisions in Dorset recently,” said Police and Crime Commissioner for Dorset, Martyn Underhill. “The weather can adversely affect driving conditions and it is therefore important to drive to the conditions of the road at all times. With strong winds and rain predicted over the weekend I want to join colleagues at Dorset Police in reminding all road users to take extra care when driving in poor weather conditions.”

Chief Superintendent Nikki Leaper, head of Alliance Operations, said, “We really want to encourage drivers on our roads to make sensible choices to ensure they are safe.

“The Met Office is predicting high winds and scattered showers over the weekend and we are expecting an increased number of vehicles on our network as holidaymakers travel to Dorset for a staycation.

“We’ve recently seen a number of collisions where road users have been injured or even sadly killed on our roads and with around 1,700 casualties recorded each year, it is important road users take preventative steps to keep themselves and those around them safe.”

If you’re getting behind the wheel you should ensure you are fit to drive and that your vehicle is roadworthy. Modify your driving behaviour in response to local conditions:

• Take extra care
• ensure you keep both hands on the wheel and be ready to react to changes in road conditions such as standing water or sudden gusts of wind
• be cautious when passing high sided vehicles on exposed stretches of road. 
• keep your speed down and leave more room between your vehicle and the one in front. 

Drivers should allow themselves extra time when travelling and ensure their vehicle is fully maintained and up to the task. Double check your brakes and oil, ensure all your lights are working, your tyres have good tread depth and you have got plenty of fuel.

Chief superintendent Leaper continued, “Any collision can have devastating consequences, but by following these measures you will be helping to keep yourself and others safe on the roads of Dorset.”