KINGSBRIDGE Police are publicising road user visibility as part of their road safety theme for January.

Sergeant Dave Green said: ‘At this time of year it is crucial for pedestrians to be careful about their own visibility, but equally important for vehicle lights and tyres to be well maintained.

‘Pedestrians, horse riders, cyclists and motorcyclists are very much at risk on the roads if they are not clearly visible. Good quality lights and reflective clothing are all easily available. ‘Road collisions impact significantly on people’s lives and remain the leading cause of death for pedestrians and young adults nationally, accounting for over a quarter of all deaths in the 15 to 19 age group.

‘Whilst vehicle speed is one of the main causes of collisions, making vulnerable road users more visible improves their chances of being seen at the earliest opportunity by motorists. ‘With reduced daylight hours and poor weather conditions at this time of year, it is particularly important for all road users to recognise the need to see and be seen.

‘Schools already endorse these messages with younger pedestrians, and it is important that police pass the same advice to others. It really can be the difference between life and death.’