Winter Road Safety
Tuesday, 12th January 2010
Drivers have been urged to be weather wise and not be caught out by the current wintery conditions.
The Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill visited Stirling today to thank Central Scotland Police for their excellent work over the past few challenging weeks and reiterate the message of driving safely.
Despite the terrible conditions, Central Police caught one motorist speeding at 76mph and another driving at 90mph on the A9 in the Dunblane area.
Mr MacAskill said:
"It is completely unacceptable that people are taking these risks and driving at such speeds putting their own lives and the lives of others in danger.
"I would like to pay tribute to Central Scotland Police and officers across Scotland who have worked so hard in the past few weeks in the most challenging conditions.
"It is essential that people take extra care when driving in the terrible conditions we have endured for the past few weeks. This is one of the worst winters in 50 years and people must make sure they are prepared for all conditions.
"Drivers need to allow extra time in the wintry conditions, reducer their speed and allow more time to stop. Wherever possible they should use main routes and make sure they have de-iced their cars. They need to be weather wise in these conditions."
Donald McMillan, Central Scotland Police's Chief Inspector of Roads Policing, said:
"At a time when the roads are covered in snow or ice and are extremely treacherous, doing motorway speeds on rural roads is foolhardy. It is extremely fortunate that nobody has been killed or injured as a result."
