Reducing the harm caused on our roads is a key commitment for West Mercia Police, as set out in the Police and Crime Commissioner’s police and crime plan. In line with this and to support the year round operational activity already undertaken, we will be supporting ‘Operation Dark Night’ (28 October – 10 November), a national police led operation focusing on keeping cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders safe during the darker months. 

Everyone has the right to use the roads safely whether choosing to do this via cycle, horse or foot.  Over the winter months motorists are being urged to look carefully for other road users, unfortunately collisions have occurred where vehicles have failed to see the presence of another road user when undertaking manoeuvres, overtaking or at junctions. Cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders are also being encouraged to think about how visible they are. As part of the operation we will also be highlighting motorists’ legal obligation to ensure their vision is roadworthy every time they get behind the wheel. Apart from the risk of causing a collision, being caught driving with uncorrected defective eyesight is punishable with a fine of up to £1,000, three penalty points and possible disqualification.

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