Road Crime

Road crime includes a wide range of driving offences that put road users at risk, from speeding and dangerous driving to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Road safety focuses on preventing collisions, injuries, and deaths by promoting safer driving behaviours, enforcing laws, and educating all road users.

In Essex, the leading causes of serious injury and death on the roads (often referred to as the Fatal Four) are:

• Speeding
• Drink and drug driving
• Not wearing a seatbelt
• Using a mobile phone while driving

These are key focus areas for partners working to reduce road harm.

Road crime covers a broad range of offences. Common categories include:

Dangerous Driving

Driving that falls far below the standard expected of a competent and careful driver, and where it would be obvious that the behaviour is dangerous. Examples include:

• Ignoring traffic lights or road signs
• Driving under the influence of drink/drugs
• Racing or aggressive driving
• Driving with dangerous vehicle faults
• Serious distractions such as using handheld devices

Careless or Inconsiderate Driving

Driving that falls below the expected standard. Examples include:

• Tailgating
• Pulling out in front of other vehicles
• Misusing lanes to overtake
• Being avoidably distracted (tuning the radio, lighting a cigarette)

Driving Under the Influence

Driving whilst impaired by alcohol or drugs is a serious offence and contributes significantly to fatal and serious collisions.

Driving Without Insurance, MOT, or a Licence

These offences put other road users at risk. Vehicles without documents may be unroadworthy, increasing danger and complicating claims after a collision.

Mobile Phone Offences

Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is illegal. It can be treated as a standalone offence or as dangerous/careless driving depending on circumstances.

Road Safety in Essex

Road safety is a partnership effort across:

• Essex Police
• Essex County Council
• Safer Essex Roads Partnership (SERP)
• Community groups and volunteers

SERP work towards Vision Zero – the ambition that no one should be killed or seriously injured on Essex roads. Activities include enforcement, education campaigns, community engagement, and engineering improvements.