Police issue urgent plea amid series of crashes in Devon and Cornwall
Officers are asking drivers to be cautious after a number of fatal crashes
Devon and Cornwall Police have issued an urgent plea to drivers following a number of fatal collisions across the two counties.
In the past few days, police have been called to "a number of serious collisions - some of which proved fatal".
On top of this, a significant number of people involved in the crashes who sadly passed away were under the age of 25.
The sheer number of collisions has prompted a response from the police, asking people to remain vigilant on the roads, despite the start of summer.
"There has been a significant number of very serious collisions on Devon and Cornwall’s roads recently," Chief Inspector Dean Drury said.
"Due to the good weather we have been having we have seen more people out on our roads.
“Tragically some of these collisions have resulted in a tragic loss of life, including several young people, which has been devastating for the families and friends of those involved.
"These people are being supported by specialist officers and our thoughts are with them at this incredibly difficult time."
Drury added that while the "vast majority" of roads in Devon and Cornwall are safe, it is important not to take these for granted and remain focused on the road, as "things can change in a split second".
Citing the so-called 'Fatal Five', police are asking drivers to avoid speeding, driving without a seatbelt, using a phone while driving, avoiding substances while driving and making sure the driver is fit to be behind the wheel.
"The past few weeks have been truly tragic and the last thing our officers want to do is knock on any more doors to tell someone a loved one isn’t coming home," Chief Inspector Drury added.