Slow down plea to Borders drivers

​The latest figures show speed contributes to one in five deaths on Scotland’s roads.

Running across TV, cinema, radio and digital channels, the campaign delivers a strong message to drivers.

It highlights that even a small reduction in speed can make a difference – with research showing fatal collisions caused by drivers travelling at 65mph could be halved if the drivers slowed down by just 5mph.

Speeding increases the likelihood and severity of collisions and casualties. In 2024, there were 140 fatalities or casualties on roads in the Scottish Borders.

The campaign also reminds drivers to take extra care on non-built-up roads. Although 42 per cent of reported casualties on Scotland's roads take place on rural roads, they account for almost two-thirds of road deaths, due to the higher speeds.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport, Fiona Hyslop, said: "No matter how experienced you are as a driver, collisions can happen to anyone.

"We know that speeding makes collisions more likely and more serious, and no-one should die or be seriously-injured on our roads. You only have to lose control once, and the consequences can be devastating.

"We’re urging drivers to make our roads safer for everyone by reducing their speed.”

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) has also endorsed the campaign.

SFRS Deputy Assistant Chief Officer Kenny Barbour emphasised the serious consequences of driving at speed.

He said: "Driving at speed not only places the driver and any passengers at risk, but everyone else on the road, particularly pedestrians and cyclists.

"Sadly, many of our crews have responded to road traffic collisions and they witness the devastating aftermath.

"We always urge drivers to stick to speed limits and to drive to road and weather conditions to help keep themselves and others safe."