Police criticise "rude and impatient" motorists after serious road accident (From Bournemouth Echo)
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Police criticise "rude and impatient" motorists after serious road accident
8:30am Monday 17th January 2011 in News By Timothy John
FURIOUS traffic police have criticised “rude and impatient” motorists who complained after they closed a major road to deal with an accident.
The smash, which left a cyclist in hospital with serious leg injuries happened on Blandford Road, Hamworthy.
Officers closed the road for almost two and half hours on Friday afternoon while they dealt with the aftermath.
The immediate area became gridlocked at the worst possible time – rush hour.
But in the congestion, lots of drivers lost their temper and took out frustrations on the police.
Others performed U-turns in Blandford Road to avoid being stuck for hours in the ever-lengthening jam.
Sergeant Steve Quill of the Ferndown Traffic Unit said: “A great many local motorists who were unfortunately caught up in the delay showed little or no patience with officers manning the road closures.
“Many did not accept that the road had to be closed at all. They did not follow the instructions given to them for alternative routes.
“I’m sure if these impatient and rude drivers had someone in their families involved in a serious collision, they would want the police to do all they could to investigate the matter fully,” he added.
He said road closures were only made when absolutely necessary to reduce inconvenience to local communities, and added that drivers should remain calm.
The cyclist, a 32-year-old local man, was involved in a collision with a black Suzuki motorcycle as both overtook a line of traffic near the junction of Symes Road at about 4.30pm. The motorcycle then struck a car.
Both were heading towards Upton.
Temporary traffic lights slowed already heavy traffic to a crawl near the railway bridge at Turlin Road.
The motorcyclist, a 41-year-old Bournemouth man, suffered facial injuries and a broken nose. A police spokesman said the cyclist’s helmet had saved his life.
One Hamworthy resident who turned out of Turlin Moor and couldn’t make it to her home just up the road, drove away and sought refuge with relatives.
“I thought I would never get home,” she said.
“People were turning in the road. What did they want us to do, sit there?”
Gordon Agar, who lives in the road, had seen the traffic build up all day, from the one-way lights put in near the bridges as workmen dealt with a gas leak.
“There was a long queue all day,” he said. “The traffic was backed up all along the road. It was coming to home time and youngsters will go along the outside and overtake.”
Comments(78)
uvox44
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10:45am Sat 15 Jan 11
Tony7
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10:59am Sat 15 Jan 11
Aviewoneverything
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11:09am Sat 15 Jan 11
poolebabe
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12:04pm Sat 15 Jan 11
uvox44 wrote:All too common and getting worse I feel. We had road rage the other day because my husband stopped to give way to the right on a mini roundabout! There was little in the way of traffic, but we got horn blasts, erratic driving behind, flashing lights and a stuck up middle finger. This was a woman. :/
I read on the BBC Site that Dorset has one of the worst accident rates in the UK-this doesn't surprise me when I see the attitude of some drivers around here, especially it seems in Bournemouth, where the race-track mentality is alive and well , sadly. The irony is that if you relax and keep to a steady pace not only will you arrive at the same time but you will also be safer, calmer, use less fuel, wear your brakes out less and cause less pollution. Sadly the rational side of people seems to go out the window when they get in their cars- a good example of unbelievable impatience was the driver who overtook me whilst i was doing 30mph in a 30 zone only to turn into his house literally seconds later!! Words fail me....
Mel_R
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12:13pm Sat 15 Jan 11
If they'd have done that, then any through traffic would have diverted up Holes Bay, rather than go all the way up to Turlin Moor, and then have to turn round any come back again.
Not condoning people's rude behaviour in any way at all, but the Police could have arranged some pro-activity here, and this would have assisted everyone - including the Police themselves.
H2o-hara
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12:18pm Sat 15 Jan 11
Morrigan
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12:20pm Sat 15 Jan 11
Tony7 wrote:What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while.
The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?
Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside.
The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
bookkeeper
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12:38pm Sat 15 Jan 11
downfader
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2:05pm Sat 15 Jan 11
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However, I did experience something similar in 2008 when hit by a car and laying on my back awaiting ambo and spinal board. I dont live in Dorset, but Southampton (I end up on here because I use these sites to monitor how cycling is used and percieved in the UK), so I think this is a national problem, not really a localised one to any one area.
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People just need to calm down. People seem to be becoming more and more aggrevated for little reason, and this just provokes more of the same. Take a few deep breaths and relax. Put on a cd, the radio etc.
captsanders
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2:26pm Sat 15 Jan 11
uvox44 wrote:That's pretty weird because I have just looked ate 7 different sites and all state that Yorkshire has the worst accident rate
I read on the BBC Site that Dorset has one of the worst accident rates in the UK-this doesn't surprise me when I see the attitude of some drivers around here, especially it seems in Bournemouth, where the race-track mentality is alive and well , sadly. The irony is that if you relax and keep to a steady pace not only will you arrive at the same time but you will also be safer, calmer, use less fuel, wear your brakes out less and cause less pollution. Sadly the rational side of people seems to go out the window when they get in their cars- a good example of unbelievable impatience was the driver who overtook me whilst i was doing 30mph in a 30 zone only to turn into his house literally seconds later!! Words fail me....
MJD
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2:28pm Sat 15 Jan 11
EGHH
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2:33pm Sat 15 Jan 11
downfader
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3:06pm Sat 15 Jan 11
EGHH wrote:There are cameras out there for HGVs and other drivers. Roadhawk for one. Not sure if it can be adapted for rearview though.
I drive about a 1000 miles a week in my job and I see bad driving everywhere from both sexes and all ages. It seems tailgating is getting more prevalent, usually by 4 x 4 drivers! It is a pity someone doesn't invent a camera to catch tailgaters. And a word to tailgaters, a large van or truck cannot see you in their mirrors when you are that close, if you can't see the mirrors they can't see you. So don't get surprised if you run into the back of one when they are stopping. The driver can't see you!!!
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They're starting to be used against crash-for-cash scams (pretty common against HGV drivers, someone deliberately pulls in or overtakes an HGV or other vehicle and immediately slams the anchors on to make a false insurance claim, its nearly ruined some firms).
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Scarey, I get a fair bit of tailgaiting on the bike, even when doing the limit. Family on their motorbikes get it too, plus aggressive overtaking.
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My Uncle used to drive for Birdseye in the late 70s, early 80s I think. Learnt a fair bit about big vehicles blindspots from him and from my own job later in life (industrial catering).
Pro bono publico
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4:54pm Sat 15 Jan 11
Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous.
Tony7 wrote:What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while.
The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?
Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside.
The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
What the hell were the police doing that took them that long?
Not investigating the crime for sure!
bookkeeper
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5:05pm Sat 15 Jan 11
downfader
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5:12pm Sat 15 Jan 11
Pro bono publico wrote:Have you not seen the press or the media in the past week? The independent, telegraph, the BBC, local and national radio has all covered the failure of the justice system to record evidence and prosecute dangerous driving. This has been especially true with regards vulnerable road groups such as cyclists, pedestrians and motorcyclists.
Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
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They wont know if its a crime UNTIL they investigate. Or would you rather that they let everyone go only to kill someone (as happened in London with a recent tipper truck driver who had the "mother of all hangovers" according to the judge - that guy had been let off time and time again)
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This is sadly why we're in this situation. If there is an issue its with the signage, not the coppers on the ground trying to do a job.
madgeman
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5:20pm Sat 15 Jan 11
Pro bono publico wrote:I saw one of those programmes on television(bike cops, I think) where they were investigating a serious accident between a bike and a van. The officers involved were actually looking for the filaments from the brake lights of one of the vehicles, too see if the brake lights were illuminated at the time of the accident.
Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
All that takes time, unless you know different, but I'm guessing you don't have a clue about it, and are just another impatient motorist who only cares about themselves, and the little metal box they're in.
Pro bono publico
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10:47pm Sat 15 Jan 11
madgeman wrote:Ah now I understand, you are one of those who believe everything they show on TV is the TRUTH!
Pro bono publico wrote:I saw one of those programmes on television(bike cops, I think) where they were investigating a serious accident between a bike and a van. The officers involved were actually looking for the filaments from the brake lights of one of the vehicles, too see if the brake lights were illuminated at the time of the accident.
Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
All that takes time, unless you know different, but I'm guessing you don't have a clue about it, and are just another impatient motorist who only cares about themselves, and the little metal box they're in.
You poor wretch!
magura
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11:18pm Sat 15 Jan 11
madgeman
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11:56pm Sat 15 Jan 11
Pro bono publico wrote:It was a DOCUMENTARY, which if you have half a brain cell means it's real-life, ie the TRUTH. Its nice to see you have some respect as well, as the investigation I was referring to was in relation to someone on a motorbike who was killed by a van that turned across in front of them. As for for calling me a wretch, get a life!
madgeman wrote:Ah now I understand, you are one of those who believe everything they show on TV is the TRUTH! You poor wretch!Pro bono publico wrote:I saw one of those programmes on television(bike cops, I think) where they were investigating a serious accident between a bike and a van. The officers involved were actually looking for the filaments from the brake lights of one of the vehicles, too see if the brake lights were illuminated at the time of the accident. All that takes time, unless you know different, but I'm guessing you don't have a clue about it, and are just another impatient motorist who only cares about themselves, and the little metal box they're in.Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
downfader
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9:24am Sun 16 Jan 11
Fur_Cue wrote:I've never come across a rude and impatient Policeman. From my experience of observing how others behave around them its usually not the Police causing the problems, its usually some wolly who wont do as he's told and stay away, or take a detour.
Hahaha Police criticise "rude and impatient" motorists hahaha yeah coz no one has ever seen a rude and impatient police officer! Those two words could sum up many police. What a bunch of hippocrits. As usual it is one rule for us and another rule for them
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About 3 years back I saw a car on its roof on a roundabout. Drivers were being directed to take the first exit instead of the second or the roundabout itself, but one driver particuarly decided to try and drive through the officer and rant at her. The result was quite expectedly one of the Officer telling the driver off.
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Even though he had made physical contact with her he was let off, but he still played the victim.
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I honestly think when people are polite and law abiding there is not a problem.
WibbleFishBananna
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10:14am Sun 16 Jan 11
It is time that the idiots out there learned to respect other road users and slow down a bit. The arrogance of some drivers is unbelievable.
So to those idiots let me say this "You have no more rights on the road than anyone else, you can tailgate me as much as you like but unless you have flashing blue lights, I am not going to get out of your way."
If you have to race everywhere, try leaving a bit earlier.
bookkeeper
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1:32pm Sun 16 Jan 11
If you were queueing at the Hamworthy bridge on Friday night you would have seen one! They are only human and they are put under stress like everyone else. Most people can't get away with waving their arms around and being rude to people. The only difference between police and motorists is that the police can get it reported in the local newspaper and imply that it is not their fault. I'm saying, and have said twice already, that the situation, in my opinion, was made worse by the way the police managed it and yet they blame motorists.
downfader
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2:18pm Sun 16 Jan 11
bookkeeper wrote:My previous comment already included that caveat.
'I've never come across a rude and impatient Policeman. From my experience of observing how others behave around them its usually not the Police causing the problems, its usually some wolly who wont do as he's told and stay away, or take a detour.' If you were queueing at the Hamworthy bridge on Friday night you would have seen one! They are only human and they are put under stress like everyone else. Most people can't get away with waving their arms around and being rude to people. The only difference between police and motorists is that the police can get it reported in the local newspaper and imply that it is not their fault. I'm saying, and have said twice already, that the situation, in my opinion, was made worse by the way the police managed it and yet they blame motorists.
kathywil
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3:13pm Sun 16 Jan 11
Pro bono publico wrote:i agree with tony.
Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
how long does it take police to work out who was at fault? and what about other innocent road users who may have an important appointment, or a plane to catch, or a sick baby being taken to hospital? does it matter if a mother gives birth to her baby in a car just because the police feel the need to measure a bit of road? maybe its time the police learned consideration for other road users. for a change.
downfader
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3:36pm Sun 16 Jan 11
kathywil wrote:What an idiotic statement to make...
Pro bono publico wrote:i agree with tony. how long does it take police to work out who was at fault? and what about other innocent road users who may have an important appointment, or a plane to catch, or a sick baby being taken to hospital? does it matter if a mother gives birth to her baby in a car just because the police feel the need to measure a bit of road? maybe its time the police learned consideration for other road users. for a change.Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
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If you have a sick baby you ring 999, regardless of where you are.
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If you miss an appointment, tough, they can always check on it later if they dont beleive you.
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When they investigate they may be looking around in the dark for several things (and often this needs to be photographed, documented)
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-lights - cycle lights can fly off bikes in a crash like this, they might be looking for parts, batteries
-immediate statements from drivers to see if lights were on, position and actions involved, taking down contacts of those involved
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-street lighting, and vehicle lighting
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-skid and road markings, anything that shows braking, skidding, lines of trajectory or complication to injury
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I'll say it again, we have had exposed in the press this very week how Forces around the country did not collect evidence or statements in serious collisions. As a result people have been let down and dangerous road users are still out there in the general population. Or are you really saying that you're some how happy with that?
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Your time is not more important than the welfare of others who need attention by what is now an under-staffed Police Force. You yourself may one day be on the recieving end of an event like this. I hope to hell you are not as I'm not sure how well you'd deal with it if you cant deal with a little time lost.
kathywil
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4:11pm Sun 16 Jan 11
madgeman
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5:03pm Sun 16 Jan 11
WaveyDavey
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5:31pm Sun 16 Jan 11
kathywil wrote:So kathy, which one were you? Were you rushing to catch a plane, or giving birth in a car? Was your child being rushed to hospital, or were you on your way to an 'important' appointment?
Pro bono publico wrote:i agree with tony.
Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
how long does it take police to work out who was at fault? and what about other innocent road users who may have an important appointment, or a plane to catch, or a sick baby being taken to hospital? does it matter if a mother gives birth to her baby in a car just because the police feel the need to measure a bit of road? maybe its time the police learned consideration for other road users. for a change.
What would you have done in the circumstances, I wonder? Drag the injured onto the pavement so that all these pregnant women can get to hospital, no doubt!
mxmum
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5:35pm Sun 16 Jan 11
upontown
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5:39pm Sun 16 Jan 11
As for the Police taking that amount of time to open the road may I point out that I witnessed a 7 vehicle accident (6 cars and a motorcycle) on the M25 a few weeks ago which was cleared in 45 minutes.
Artoo
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5:41pm Sun 16 Jan 11
bookkeeper
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6:42pm Sun 16 Jan 11
Are we swapping caveats then, Downfader?
Here's one of mine 'The policeman sitting in his car at the top of the hill at Upton junction could have diverted all of the traffic away from the road without much difficulty as they were all crawling past him anyway'. I'm guessing you are a policeman as you are obviously not listening to anyone else yet still think you know exactly what happened without being there.
madgeman
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7:25pm Sun 16 Jan 11
bookkeeper wrote:Have you ever worked on the roads and tried to direct traffic; I have and it's a nightmare!
'This is sadly why we're in this situation. If there is an issue its with the signage, not the coppers on the ground trying to do a job.' Are we swapping caveats then, Downfader? Here's one of mine 'The policeman sitting in his car at the top of the hill at Upton junction could have diverted all of the traffic away from the road without much difficulty as they were all crawling past him anyway'. I'm guessing you are a policeman as you are obviously not listening to anyone else yet still think you know exactly what happened without being there.
It only takes one person who doesn't know the area to start asking directions, and before you know it you've got 20 cars backed up, all wanting to ask the same question. It's not talking to them that's the problem, what is though is when they start backing up across junctions, and roundabouts, causing more traffic problems.
When I used to direct traffic at roadworks, the best bet was to leave the drivers alone; also closing roads etc for any amount of time is the local councils responsibility, not the Police's, and I'm guessing the police car at the top of the road was waiting for the council to put some signs out!
As usual though people don't know the rules of the road,ie who's responsible for maintaining them and closing them long-term, but have an opinion anyway; the Police can only do what they're doing, ie investigate the accident; the one on the motorway was probably a no injury one/caught on cctv; if there are no injuries or people can't exchange details then the Police in theory don't have to attend or be notified, which is in any Highway Code, but they would obviously attend a motorway, for safetys sake and to clear the road as quickly as possible; if it had been a serious injury one though, then as happens, the motoway would have been closed for hours.
downfader
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7:43pm Sun 16 Jan 11
madgeman wrote:Well said!
bookkeeper wrote: 'This is sadly why we're in this situation. If there is an issue its with the signage, not the coppers on the ground trying to do a job.' Are we swapping caveats then, Downfader? Here's one of mine 'The policeman sitting in his car at the top of the hill at Upton junction could have diverted all of the traffic away from the road without much difficulty as they were all crawling past him anyway'. I'm guessing you are a policeman as you are obviously not listening to anyone else yet still think you know exactly what happened without being there.Have you ever worked on the roads and tried to direct traffic; I have and it's a nightmare! It only takes one person who doesn't know the area to start asking directions, and before you know it you've got 20 cars backed up, all wanting to ask the same question. It's not talking to them that's the problem, what is though is when they start backing up across junctions, and roundabouts, causing more traffic problems. When I used to direct traffic at roadworks, the best bet was to leave the drivers alone; also closing roads etc for any amount of time is the local councils responsibility, not the Police's, and I'm guessing the police car at the top of the road was waiting for the council to put some signs out! As usual though people don't know the rules of the road,ie who's responsible for maintaining them and closing them long-term, but have an opinion anyway; the Police can only do what they're doing, ie investigate the accident; the one on the motorway was probably a no injury one/caught on cctv; if there are no injuries or people can't exchange details then the Police in theory don't have to attend or be notified, which is in any Highway Code, but they would obviously attend a motorway, for safetys sake and to clear the road as quickly as possible; if it had been a serious injury one though, then as happens, the motoway would have been closed for hours.
downfader
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7:51pm Sun 16 Jan 11
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What I have ended up becoming is interested in various aspects of road safety and investigation from the viewpoint of someone who has been clipped several times on the road, including one situation where I was put on a spinal board and taken away in an ambulance.
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I made the mistake of waiting until I had been hit until I got properly involved with trying to understand what goes on behind the scenes. Even though I always rode from the view of a defensive cyclist it wasnt enough, no one is a Jedi or a Superman out there, but understanding and promoting good road use CAN and DOES help make the roads safer.
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That includes understanding how and why the Police operate. Some here clearly think their time is more important and don't understand the reasons behind road closures. If you don't understand then write to the Department for Transport and ask what happens and why. Don't whinge online... although suspect you wont, as its easier to whine rather than actually understand and adapt your behaviour as a result.
DanAFCB
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8:35pm Sun 16 Jan 11
I came around The George Roundabout several weeks ago to look in my nearside mirror only to see a moped coming up my inside as I am turning off to go up towards the hospital, then when I got the chance to tell him what a complete moron he was, he told me to fu*k off! I should have just knocked him off he wouldnt have done it again!
captsanders
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9:11pm Sun 16 Jan 11
DanAFCB wrote:Just yesterday in Fairmile Road a woman half way across the zebra crossing was almost knocked over by one of these dipstick cyclists, dressed in some plastic suit, plastic helmet and speedo's he completely ignored the red light and nearly flattened her, she actually had to stop in the middle of the road to let him go past, the sooner these dam people are forced to pay insurance and tax the better.
I have no sympathy for Cyclists, Mopeds or Motorcyclists, they are a law onto themselves and cause a lot of the accidents they are involved in.....
I came around The George Roundabout several weeks ago to look in my nearside mirror only to see a moped coming up my inside as I am turning off to go up towards the hospital, then when I got the chance to tell him what a complete moron he was, he told me to fu*k off! I should have just knocked him off he wouldnt have done it again!
DanAFCB
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9:48pm Sun 16 Jan 11
captsanders wrote:There you go, point proven!!!! The only story we are missing is one of an idiotic motorcyclist now..........
DanAFCB wrote: I have no sympathy for Cyclists, Mopeds or Motorcyclists, they are a law onto themselves and cause a lot of the accidents they are involved in..... I came around The George Roundabout several weeks ago to look in my nearside mirror only to see a moped coming up my inside as I am turning off to go up towards the hospital, then when I got the chance to tell him what a complete moron he was, he told me to fu*k off! I should have just knocked him off he wouldnt have done it again!Just yesterday in Fairmile Road a woman half way across the zebra crossing was almost knocked over by one of these dipstick cyclists, dressed in some plastic suit, plastic helmet and speedo's he completely ignored the red light and nearly flattened her, she actually had to stop in the middle of the road to let him go past, the sooner these dam people are forced to pay insurance and tax the better.
downfader
says...
11:20pm Sun 16 Jan 11
DanAFCB wrote:Aint no point proven as far as I can see. You've only both said something on the web, unsubstantiated, without evidence and resorted to a rant.
captsanders wrote:There you go, point proven!!!! The only story we are missing is one of an idiotic motorcyclist now..........DanAFCB wrote: I have no sympathy for Cyclists, Mopeds or Motorcyclists, they are a law onto themselves and cause a lot of the accidents they are involved in..... I came around The George Roundabout several weeks ago to look in my nearside mirror only to see a moped coming up my inside as I am turning off to go up towards the hospital, then when I got the chance to tell him what a complete moron he was, he told me to fu*k off! I should have just knocked him off he wouldnt have done it again!Just yesterday in Fairmile Road a woman half way across the zebra crossing was almost knocked over by one of these dipstick cyclists, dressed in some plastic suit, plastic helmet and speedo's he completely ignored the red light and nearly flattened her, she actually had to stop in the middle of the road to let him go past, the sooner these dam people are forced to pay insurance and tax the better.
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The fact of the matter is that the Police and the Department for Transport completely disagree with you. The DFT study released last year showed that in the investigations that followed the collisions with cyclists that 93% were not to blame for it. The Met Police have their own studies that say over 90% of cyclists were not to blame.
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Deal with transgressors, yes, no one has a problem with that. However to label us all the same is just showing you to be ignorant or bigotted towards others in the least, and not in full understanding of how taxes and insurance work or the conditions others have to deal with.
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It makes me feel as if you're out to blame the victims here.
Lord Spring
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9:08am Mon 17 Jan 11
upontown wrote:Have you steped forward as a witness to the M25 incident.!
The advance warning signs should be placed in strategic places ie on the approaches to Upton in case something like this happens again. This situation also reiterates the need for a fixed span bridge across holes bay, if this had been built then there probably would've been less of an outrage directed at the Police. As for the Police taking that amount of time to open the road may I point out that I witnessed a 7 vehicle accident (6 cars and a motorcycle) on the M25 a few weeks ago which was cleared in 45 minutes.
On the subject of Road Closed signs many ignore it and think they can get through
pd7
says...
9:26am Mon 17 Jan 11
mikey2gorgeous
says...
9:40am Mon 17 Jan 11
captsanders wrote:You see one incident of an inconsiderate person on a bicycle (with no injuries or accident) and suddenly ALL cyclists are a 'danger'.
DanAFCB wrote:Just yesterday in Fairmile Road a woman half way across the zebra crossing was almost knocked over by one of these dipstick cyclists, dressed in some plastic suit, plastic helmet and speedo's he completely ignored the red light and nearly flattened her, she actually had to stop in the middle of the road to let him go past, the sooner these dam people are forced to pay insurance and tax the better.
I have no sympathy for Cyclists, Mopeds or Motorcyclists, they are a law onto themselves and cause a lot of the accidents they are involved in.....
I came around The George Roundabout several weeks ago to look in my nearside mirror only to see a moped coming up my inside as I am turning off to go up towards the hospital, then when I got the chance to tell him what a complete moron he was, he told me to fu*k off! I should have just knocked him off he wouldnt have done it again!
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In the Echo on Sat there were numerous articles of people actually being killed or injured by motorists - why no blanket statements on drivers?
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Vehicles that emit no CO2 have a £0 rated vehicle excise duty. It's a tax on how polluting your vehicle is.
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We ALL pay for the roads through local and general taxes. What do you think 'taxing' bikes would achieve? They are not a danger to others - you've more chance of being killed by a golf ball than a pavement cyclist!
Dave2207
says...
9:40am Mon 17 Jan 11
The most likely explanation is that road incidents (most are not accidents, rather they are negligents) are easy pickings.
mikey2gorgeous
says...
9:42am Mon 17 Jan 11
Dave2207 wrote:It's actually that road accidents violently kill 10 people a day in the UK. Let alone disablement and injury.
It's a pity that the plods don't spend more time investigating crimes such as: burglaries, muggings, drunken and anti-social behaviour.
The most likely explanation is that road incidents (most are not accidents, rather they are negligents) are easy pickings.
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Or do you think that doesn't matter?
Dave2207
says...
9:52am Mon 17 Jan 11
I'm not saying that twenty bruglaries are equal to one road death, or whatever, but that there is too much focus on road incidents at the expense of others. Even when the hours of road closures enable the collection of vast amounts of detailled evidence, the courts award paltry punishments to killer drivers.
A year, or so, ago, a foreign lorry driver killed a family of two adults and two youngsters by crashing his lorry into their stationary car. He got a couple of years' jail; he would have got more for groping the young girl.
Following your argument, all police would investigate only murder (the most serious crime of all) and no other crimes would be bothered with.
gerbil112
says...
10:23am Mon 17 Jan 11
Spidermonkey1970
says...
10:44am Mon 17 Jan 11
I was one of the drivers who was late to pick up my children - not because I am selfish or uncaring about those injured in an accident - but because the police did not have the resources to stop me driving two miles down Blandford Road only to have to turn around and go past them again, still standing there. By the time I came back (about 25 minutes later) they had moved a cone further into the road, but there was still no indication of the fact that the road was closed ahead.
Was I frustrated? Dam right I was. Was I rude - no. I phoned 222222 and asked them for the love of God to stop people going down there, but they said they were waiting for an incident update, despite the fact that I was able to tell them exactly what was going on and that there was traffic chaos.
The drivers were angry because it was AVOIDABLE. That's all. And it's not the first time it's happened. You can't send cars into a peninsula like Hamworthy, unless they can get out! All we want is information :)
hammer
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10:46am Mon 17 Jan 11
mikey2gorgeous
says...
11:12am Mon 17 Jan 11
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Official Uk stats say that in 2006 (for example) there were 12.7 million motoring offences - in a population of 62 million! Speeding alone accounts for 2 million. That's just those who were caught. Current legislation and enforcement aren't having much of a deterrent effect!
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I agree these resources could be usefully deployed on other areas but what state would that leave our roads in?
Tony Trent
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11:28am Mon 17 Jan 11
Tony Trent
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11:29am Mon 17 Jan 11
Phixer
says...
11:37am Mon 17 Jan 11
Spidermonkey1970 wrote:The police also have a responsibility to keep traffic moving.
This thread seems to have gone off the topic that the police are "furious" with "ride and impatient" drivers.
I was one of the drivers who was late to pick up my children - not because I am selfish or uncaring about those injured in an accident - but because the police did not have the resources to stop me driving two miles down Blandford Road only to have to turn around and go past them again, still standing there. By the time I came back (about 25 minutes later) they had moved a cone further into the road, but there was still no indication of the fact that the road was closed ahead.
Was I frustrated? Dam right I was. Was I rude - no. I phoned 222222 and asked them for the love of God to stop people going down there, but they said they were waiting for an incident update, despite the fact that I was able to tell them exactly what was going on and that there was traffic chaos.
The drivers were angry because it was AVOIDABLE. That's all. And it's not the first time it's happened. You can't send cars into a peninsula like Hamworthy, unless they can get out! All we want is information :)
Evidence suggests that they would rather take the easy option of standing around than take any personal responsibilty to do something. Lengthy road closures just don't seem to happen elsewhere, the police keep the traffic moving while still 'collecting evidence'.
frarog
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11:56am Mon 17 Jan 11
Tony7 wrote:Usually this is true and you are right.
The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?
In some countries, the authorities are penalised if a road is not re-opened within 1 hour.
simonhumby
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12:58pm Mon 17 Jan 11
To all those who are trying to paint this issue as a lack of sympathy or humanity amongst nasty, impatient drivers - let me ask you. You may be content to sit in your cars for 2 and a half hours while the police flaf around but would you be content after 3 hours? 6 hours? etc. Where would you draw the line? Any sensible person would be patient as long as necessary but in this case it's very hard to see that 2 and a half hours was necessary.
common dog
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1:00pm Mon 17 Jan 11
1. Some people think that the police have no need or right to close the road after an incident. Even though they have no knowledge of what the police are required to do by law (not assumption) or any problems they may encounter.
2. Most people think that whatever they are doing is more important than anything the authorities are having to cope with.
3. When people have an incident it colours their judgement to the point that they condemn an entire group of road users.
From reading the article and comments it seems that a lot of the problems could have been avoided with signs further along the road.
tonyrichards1
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1:09pm Mon 17 Jan 11
Where I am staying now, there never is a problem...I think the UK is the only country in the world where the police just love to make life harder for the motorist..
Other countries keep the traffic flowing and gain more respect..
Yes they have a job to do and that job also includes keeping things moving!! IMHO
Fuzzy Grub
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2:43pm Mon 17 Jan 11
kathywil wrote:Kathy you don't deserve a place in society far less a driving licence with your blatant disregard to anyone else.
Pro bono publico wrote:i agree with tony. how long does it take police to work out who was at fault? and what about other innocent road users who may have an important appointment, or a plane to catch, or a sick baby being taken to hospital? does it matter if a mother gives birth to her baby in a car just because the police feel the need to measure a bit of road? maybe its time the police learned consideration for other road users. for a change.Morrigan wrote:I agree with Tony, shutting the road completely for two hours and twenty minutes just because a motor cyclist has hit a push bike, is scandalous. What the hell were the police doing that took them that long? Not investigating the crime for sure!Tony7 wrote: The police shut roads now for no good reason and for far too long. It is about time there was an investigation into this. It doesn't happen on the continent so why here ?What a pitiful comment. I expect you are one of those type of people who complain at the roadside because they are held up for a while. Why does no one have any feelings of humanity anymore? So what if you're late home from work/getting to the pub/or whatever?! .......... some road accident victims are even later if it means they have to go to hospital or even worse die at the roadside. The reason roads are closed is to make sure every possible piece of information has been gathered for any investigation or insurance claims - and you can thanks the ambulance chasing compensation society in which we now live to thank for that.
These accidents/collisions can leave people seriously mamed, disabled or dead.
What's so important about your appointment that you think Police should rush to collect vital evidence?
Put you keyboard and car keys away before you hurt yourself or someone else.
a.g.o.g.
says...
3:53pm Mon 17 Jan 11
gerbil112 wrote:The word "Accident" means something that has happened unintentionally.
By the way, Dave2207, road incidents are no longer called Road Traffic Accidents (RTA's) as the word "Accident" implies that no-one is to blame. They are now called Road Traffic Collisions (RTC's), as that is what they are.
This "Blame Culture" world only serves they who practise enforce it.
Signs on the M3 advise of "Road Incident" ahead.
I suppose A & E will be have to be
re-named before very long,
Any suggestions?
TinyLegacy
says...
4:23pm Mon 17 Jan 11
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They had nothing to gain by closing the road for the length of time they did, so for anyone out there moaning, please stop... it's an inconvenience, something we all face day to day, get over it.
A speedy recovery to those involved, I hope your loss of faith in humanity thanks to comments on here doesn't hinder your health!
timsaunders
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5:35pm Mon 17 Jan 11
shecat
says...
5:38pm Mon 17 Jan 11
downfader wrote:.... And if the Police were not able to carry out their duty because it was at a time and place inconvenient to those of you who are so quick to attack them simply because you feel inconvenienced you would be the first to complain! Why do people choose to attack the Police as a service, is it because you do not see these Officers as individuals who care deeply about helping people and you think it is a convenient scape goat to attack the establishment collectively? Obviously and pathetically!
EGHH wrote:There are cameras out there for HGVs and other drivers. Roadhawk for one. Not sure if it can be adapted for rearview though.
I drive about a 1000 miles a week in my job and I see bad driving everywhere from both sexes and all ages. It seems tailgating is getting more prevalent, usually by 4 x 4 drivers! It is a pity someone doesn't invent a camera to catch tailgaters. And a word to tailgaters, a large van or truck cannot see you in their mirrors when you are that close, if you can't see the mirrors they can't see you. So don't get surprised if you run into the back of one when they are stopping. The driver can't see you!!!
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They're starting to be used against crash-for-cash scams (pretty common against HGV drivers, someone deliberately pulls in or overtakes an HGV or other vehicle and immediately slams the anchors on to make a false insurance claim, its nearly ruined some firms).
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Scarey, I get a fair bit of tailgaiting on the bike, even when doing the limit. Family on their motorbikes get it too, plus aggressive overtaking.
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My Uncle used to drive for Birdseye in the late 70s, early 80s I think. Learnt a fair bit about big vehicles blindspots from him and from my own job later in life (industrial catering).
Dorset Mitch
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6:04pm Mon 17 Jan 11
simonhumby wrote:Guess it depends on the incident doesn't it? A incident with multiple fatalities will take longer than say a car in a hedge no injuries. Also the time of the day and the road type will play a factor.
It is very hard to understand why the police took so long - perhaps they've got nothing better to do? Or perhaps they are just covering themselves from accusations that they didn't do their jobs properly / collect all evidence - which could be used by the insurance companies as an excuse not to pay out? To all those who are trying to paint this issue as a lack of sympathy or humanity amongst nasty, impatient drivers - let me ask you. You may be content to sit in your cars for 2 and a half hours while the police flaf around but would you be content after 3 hours? 6 hours? etc. Where would you draw the line? Any sensible person would be patient as long as necessary but in this case it's very hard to see that 2 and a half hours was necessary.
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While I would say maybe this could be handled better we can all sit on here and judge, do we know how long it took to mark up the incidend, interview the drivers, get the specialist teams to the scene all of which could take time. Yes maybe a sign further down the road would of helped, what wouldn't help is people being rude to the officers early in the incident as after a hour of that no wonder why they had a face on them!
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All that matters is that the people involved make a speedy recovery.
d15
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6:41pm Mon 17 Jan 11
Artoo
says...
6:44pm Mon 17 Jan 11
People are also assuming that there's someone sat at a desk somewhere, ready and waiting to update the signs at a moment's notice - more likely the council department responsible had shut down for the day, hardly the fault of the police!
Palantir
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7:56pm Mon 17 Jan 11
As a random guess there's the issue of ensuring that all the needed forensics have been collected so they can examine the full cause of the incident away from the scene, ensuring that the vehicles involved have been moved so as not to cause an obstruction later on, making the affected section of the road safe and free from debris that could cause other motorists problems later on, generic guidelines and red tape that applies to every RTA, oh and possibly making sure that the people involved have all had the relevant medical attention, whether it's an airlift to hospital or treating someone who is physically fine for shock. These accidents need to be assessed fully to A) stop these happening again or reduce the chance and B) to apprehend anyone who caused the accident through carelessness or recklessness.
Unfortunately, accidents happen, they're not always in the most convenient places and it does affect other people not directly involved. What's even more unfortunate is that there are selfish pigs out there who don't care if someone might be in a serious condition or not because it's not their problem and would rather criticise the police for doing a job they know nothing about themselves.
shecat
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7:59pm Mon 17 Jan 11
alanhl
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12:12am Tue 18 Jan 11
yankee
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12:28am Tue 18 Jan 11
Unbelievable behaviour.
madgeman
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8:36am Tue 18 Jan 11
alanhl wrote:In what way did the report defy the laws of physics?
My nephew was killed by a motorist on a dual carriagway which was closed whilst the police investigated. all the investigation did NO GOOD AT ALL, the policemans report had to be seen to be believed, it defied the laws of physics and the guilty parties got off scott free so it was a waste of everyones time closing the road and poor Graham is still DEAD. it seems to me that the authorities are too happy to close roads at the drop of a hat, it never used to happen why does it happen now, it's idiotic
i personally know an accident investigator, and they had to attend a 7 week residential course to get their qualifications, which are constantly assessed; his reports are then sent to supervision, looked at by the defence, jurors, the judge, the prosecution, as well as the coroner, so if anything defied the laws of physics, then surely someone would have piped up?
I note you've stated that you've stated the guilty parties got off 'scot free' but if the evidence doesn't show them to be at fault, then in this country you're innocent until proven guilty, so they could hardly be convicted!
a.g.o.g.
says...
11:56am Tue 18 Jan 11
madgeman wrote:Seven weeks then to learn the simple laws of physics.......
alanhl wrote: My nephew was killed by a motorist on a dual carriagway which was closed whilst the police investigated. all the investigation did NO GOOD AT ALL, the policemans report had to be seen to be believed, it defied the laws of physics and the guilty parties got off scott free so it was a waste of everyones time closing the road and poor Graham is still DEAD. it seems to me that the authorities are too happy to close roads at the drop of a hat, it never used to happen why does it happen now, it's idioticIn what way did the report defy the laws of physics? i personally know an accident investigator, and they had to attend a 7 week residential course to get their qualifications, which are constantly assessed; his reports are then sent to supervision, looked at by the defence, jurors, the judge, the prosecution, as well as the coroner, so if anything defied the laws of physics, then surely someone would have piped up? I note you've stated that you've stated the guilty parties got off 'scot free' but if the evidence doesn't show them to be at fault, then in this country you're innocent until proven guilty, so they could hardly be convicted!
Nuff said!!!!
weevie
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12:26pm Tue 18 Jan 11
I am sat waiting to pull out into the high street (so, sat in Wycliffe road - where the provision of parking spaces on the North side has created a one-way squeeze EXACTLY where safety demands you don't have one!)
a youngish woman pulls alongside me (so now we're both edging into the Winton stream of traffic - but she's actually now on the wrong side of the road) - she is halted by a middle-aged female driver, who cannot go anywhere and is ALREADY IN THE MAIN ROAD - waiting for a bus to move away from outside the co-op on the corner. My new driving neighbour strains forward in her seat, SCREAMING & gesturing for the woman who can't move to "GET OUT OF THE ******* WAY".
This is the behaviour of far too many people now, just WHAT IS GOING ON?
madgeman
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10:48pm Tue 18 Jan 11
a.g.o.g. wrote:Not forgetting the 7 years they've been a traffic officer, and before that a car mechanic as well! They also work as a team, with other people who specialise in different fields; physics has something to do with the job, but only a part of it, which is why it takes so long sometimes as all these experts have to come from all around the county and could even be not at work at the time.
madgeman wrote:Seven weeks then to learn the simple laws of physics....... Nuff said!!!!alanhl wrote: My nephew was killed by a motorist on a dual carriagway which was closed whilst the police investigated. all the investigation did NO GOOD AT ALL, the policemans report had to be seen to be believed, it defied the laws of physics and the guilty parties got off scott free so it was a waste of everyones time closing the road and poor Graham is still DEAD. it seems to me that the authorities are too happy to close roads at the drop of a hat, it never used to happen why does it happen now, it's idioticIn what way did the report defy the laws of physics? i personally know an accident investigator, and they had to attend a 7 week residential course to get their qualifications, which are constantly assessed; his reports are then sent to supervision, looked at by the defence, jurors, the judge, the prosecution, as well as the coroner, so if anything defied the laws of physics, then surely someone would have piped up? I note you've stated that you've stated the guilty parties got off 'scot free' but if the evidence doesn't show them to be at fault, then in this country you're innocent until proven guilty, so they could hardly be convicted!
madgeman
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10:52pm Tue 18 Jan 11
I've looked further into the road regulations as well, and if the road is to be closed for more than about 20 minutes, then the local authority, ie the council should put signs out and diversions, so if there were no signs for a couple of hours, then it's not exactly the Police's fault, unless they're now council workers, as well as social workers, and everything else they're expected to be!
Pepper Pig
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1:54pm Thu 20 Jan 11
1. Too much caffeine. You may laugh but caffeine does change behaviour. Drink 3 cups of coffee or soda (you know the one I mean) and your behaviour will change. That’s why most aggressive driving behaviour occurs after mid-morning when people have had their caffeine fix! If you don’t believe me try watching the difference in driving manners between the morning rush hour and the evening rush hour when just about everyone is buzzing from the caffeine they've consumed that day! Ban caffeine, its poison!!
2. Motorists are already frustrated and in some cases angry when an accident occurs because it's yet another delay to their journey. If we had a sensible, joined-up national strategy for road building and management then perhaps motorists wouldn't have to put up with the congestion and delays caused by local bureaucracy.
I would also suggest that perhaps another reason people were rude on this occasion was that traffic wasn’t diverted away sooner and they had to crawl along to the accident site before being told the road was closed! I think I would have been cross if I’d sat in the queue for 20+ mins just to find the road closed!
a.g.o.g.
says...
3:28pm Thu 20 Jan 11
madgeman wrote:I think that it is up to they who plan to cause such blockages to report same to the LA that would have to have a "ready" gang to respond to urgent call as you seem to suggest. The Police have the authority and capacity to make the necessary closures and diversions but not the will it seems whenever a drop of claret is spilled locally. They make it a major crime investigation scene instead. Perhaps they have no choice.
Mind you everyone is an expert in hindsight, and it's easy to pick something to pieces while hidden behind a keyboard, and with no idea of what needs to be done. I've looked further into the road regulations as well, and if the road is to be closed for more than about 20 minutes, then the local authority, ie the council should put signs out and diversions, so if there were no signs for a couple of hours, then it's not exactly the Police's fault, unless they're now council workers, as well as social workers, and everything else they're expected to be!
bookkeeper
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10:55pm Fri 21 Jan 11
We saw no sign of rude or impatient driving, quite the opposite. It was only when people realised that they had queued for ages but that it was totally avoidable.
The police don't strike me as being particularly professional in running off and complaining about motorists and totally missing the point that they were fundamental to this behaviour.
oneshortleg says...
9:39am Sat 15 Jan 11