Council: 'Take extra care on the roads during the dark winter evenings'

Motorists are asked to look out for motorcyclists, cyclists and horse riders, and give them plenty of space.

The most vulnerable road users are being advised to wear reflective and fluorescent clothing to ensure they can be seen.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highway Management, said: “At this time of year, with the reduced daylight hours, we all need to take extra care on our roads. Ensuring you can be seen and looking out for others on the roads can help improve safety for everyone travelling on Devon’s roads.

"Pedestrians, cyclists and other vulnerable road users can help make themselves more visible by wearing bright, fluorescent and reflective clothing to be seen by passing vehicles. Motorists can also play their part by reducing their speed and giving extra space when overtaking others. It’s an important reminder to help us all keep each other safe and share our road space responsibly.”

Pedestrians should use marked crossing points where possible, and although they may have right of way over traffic on a zebra or light controlled crossing they are still responsible for ensuring that they don’t step out onto the crossing until vehicles have stopped for them.

Cyclists must use a white front light, a red back light and a red reflector at the back.

Horse riders are advised to select crossing points very carefully and are asked to show courtesy to drivers who have slowed down for them.

Motorists should overtake only when it is safe to do so, and drivers should pass slowly and allow plenty of room when overtaking.

All road users should look out for each other and take care, particularly in wet or icy conditions or if there are leaves on the road.

More information about staying safe on Devon’s roads this winter can be found on the Stay Safe in Winter website and the Travel Devon website.