TT 2008 Road safety campaign launched

The official launch of this year’s Department of Transport ‘Ride Safe’ road safety campaign was launched this morning (Monday 12^th May) by the Minister, David Anderson, Deputy Chief Constable Gary Roberts and Road Safety Unit Manager, Gordon Edwards.

A press release issued by the department states: “The campaign is a joint initiative with the Isle of Man Constabulary and features a series of images chosen to reflect the impact of a road traffic collision on a variety of different people. The campaign’s strap line –Ride Safe. If you don’t, it could hit someone hard – presents a simple and hard-hitting message and it’s hoped the images will make a lasting impression on all resident and visiting motorists during TT fortnight.”

The message this year is a bit more emotive than last year’s, presenting the devastating consequences of an accident from a number of different viewpoints.

Mr Edwards said that he hoped the message would get home to both residents and visitors alike; and the Unit is hoping for another fatality free fortnight.

DCC Roberts wished to remind visitors that a reciprocal licence ban had been introduced with the UK, and warned visitors not to risk drinking and driving. Leave your bike behind, was his advice, if you plan to drink any alcohol and obey the speed limits.

Mr Anderson said, ““TT 2008 is fast approaching and after the success of the Centenary TT road safety campaign last year it’s vital that we keep road safety as our top priority during this year’s festival. While we want people to have fun during the festival, the imagery used for the campaign should act as a stark reminder that one moment of madness could end in tragedy which has an effect on more people than just yourself. I hope that this campaign will encourage visitors and residents alike to ride and drive safe during the TT period and be mindful of the increased amount of traffic on the road at this time of year.”