the fatal four

Road safety awareness goes from strength to strength

This in from the police, in their own words. Ed


A Peugeot Expert van has been supplied for the force to use over the next year by Martins Peugeot of Winchester as part of a joint commitment to co-operate in making the roads as safe as possible.

Sponsor van with Sgt Rob HeardThe van has been wrapped with an imaginative design, highlighting ‘pictogram’ images in the shape of road signs representing the Fatal Four: these are the main reasons why people are killed and seriously injured on our roads.

The Fatal Four are:

  • Inappropriate Speed
  • Driver Distractions (Most commonly mobile phones)
  • Failing to wear a seatbelt
  • Alcohol or Drug Impairment

Think about the dangers
The purpose of this Peugeot is to make motorists think about these dangers on the roads and at public events. The van is not a police patrol vehicle, and will not carry safety cameras.

Hampshire Constabulary’s Road Safety Officer Sergeant Rob Heard said:

“I have been at far too many collisions where these four have been a factor in the collision. Many people have lost their lives unnecessary, causing heartache, and destroying families. Our key message is that ‘it’s not worth the risk’.

“The design of the van is powerful and when people see this vehicle, I want it to remind them of the risks we all face on the roads from those who speed, use their mobile phone whilst driving, fail to wear a seat belt or drink or drug drive.

“I am grateful to Martins Peugeot whose staff understand the importance of promoting road safety, and in doing so have supplied me the van to help raise awareness.”

Project Pictogram
Hampshire Constabulary has also worked closely with its partner agencies in the creation of these pictogram signs. The concept is named ‘Project Pictogram’.

The force would also like to thank Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service, Hampshire County Council, Southampton City Council, Portsmouth City Council, and the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner (OPCC) for their support and assistance.

Sergeant Rob Heard added:

“Project Pictogram is not selling anything, other than the vision of safer roads. We want these symbols to give people that little nudge to drive more safely. The ‘Nudge’ theory is a widely acknowledged behavioural science concept that subtle, indirect suggestions can influence motives and behaviour change.

“Guidelines and artwork files are available free-of charge and copyright free for use in the promotion of road safety.

“Businesses are now putting these symbols on the backs of their vehicles, and we would encourage as many employers as possible to help spread these important messages.”

Rear windscreen stickers have been created carrying the symbols, which are being given away at community events.

Additionally Hampshire Constabulary vehicles will soon be displaying these stickers.