"Please don't take risks on the roads"

Friday 24 April 2020

Although speeding has become an issue during lockdown, with numerous drivers having been sentenced for the offence in Guernsey's court, the island has actually seen a significant drop in the number of car crashes.

Between 25 March and 17 April, just 14 collisions were recorded, compared with 64 over a similar period last year.

"That is a good news story because it prevents additional patients going into the hospital for emergency treatment, which is really important," said Head of Law Enforcement, Ruari Hardy.

But it's not all good, with some drivers taking advantage of the empty roads by driving at excessive speeds, despite previous pleas from Deputy Gavin St Pier and Guernsey Police to stick to the limits.

Pictured: Ruari Hardy.

Two drivers have appeared before the Magistrate's Court this week to be sentenced for the offence. One was given a seven month disqualification and a £400 fine, while the other received a two month disqualification and a £350 fine.

Other court cases of a similar nature are pending.

"In the main, road users are being responsible," Mr Hardy added. "However, there are still some motorists who are placing themselves and others at risk by driving, for example, at excessive speeds.

"Guernsey Police are proactively undertaking speed detection work across the island and we are prosecuting offenders."

Pictured: Two people were sentenced this week in Guernsey's Magistrate's Court.

Another road traffic collision was reported earlier this week along the Rue Des Marais in the Vale. Police closed off the road at around 17:20 on Wednesday evening, while one person was still trapped in their vehicle. They were taken to hospital to be checked, but their injuries were believed to be minor.

"Please don't take risks on the roads," Mr Hardy urged motorists. "Keep your speeds down and drive responsibly."

Pictured top: The roads have emptied out during lockdown.