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Don't Take the Risk - Never Amber Gamble! Road Traffic Collision Serves as a Stark Reminder of Highway Code Importance

Local officers responded to a road traffic collision earlier this week on Manchester Road, a stark reminder of the potential consequences of not adhering to the rules of the road. While details surrounding the specific incident are still being investigated, the event serves as a crucial opportunity to reinforce the importance of the Highway Code and safe driving practices.



The incident, which prompted a swift response from emergency services, highlights the fact that even seemingly minor breaches of the Highway Code can lead to serious accidents, injuries, and potentially even fatalities. It’s a sobering thought that a moment of inattentiveness, or a split-second decision to ignore traffic guidelines, can result in far-reaching and devastating outcomes for all involved.

Edit of Image by Rochdale Police


One common, and often overlooked, area of concern is the treatment of amber traffic lights. The "Amber Gamble," as it’s sometimes known, involves the risky decision to accelerate through an amber light in the hope of beating the red. This seemingly harmless act can have disastrous consequences.

The Highway Code is clear: an amber light means "stop" unless you have already crossed the stop line, or your vehicle is so close that to stop safely would cause an accident. Ignoring this rule, and succumbing to the urge to speed up, increases the likelihood of collision with other vehicles or pedestrians.

The advice is simple and irrefutable: Don’t Take the Risk - Never Amber Gamble!

The dangers of ignoring the amber light are manifold. Not only does it create a risk of direct impact, but it also causes sudden braking in other drivers, leading to potential rear-end collisions and chain-reaction incidents. Furthermore, those rushing through lights are less likely to be scanning for pedestrians or cyclists who may be crossing.

This recent incident on Manchester Road should serve as a wake-up call to all road users. Driving safely requires diligence, patience, and a thorough respect for the Highway Code. It’s not simply about avoiding fines or penalties; it’s about protecting ourselves, our loved ones, and everyone else who shares the road.

Here are some key reminders for all drivers:

Know the Highway Code: Familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations, particularly concerning traffic lights and road signs.
Be Patient: Avoid the urge to rush or take chances. A few seconds of delay is far better than experiencing the consequences of an accident.
Anticipate: Observe traffic situations ahead and be prepared to stop safely at amber lights.
Concentrate: Eliminate distractions such as mobile phones or other forms of in-car entertainment that can impede reaction time.

The safety of our roads is a shared responsibility. While enforcement plays a role, ultimately, it comes down to each individual driver making conscious, responsible decisions behind the wheel. By remembering the potential dangers and adhering to the Highway Code, we can all contribute to making our roads safer for everyone. Let the recent incident on Manchester Road serve as a critical reminder – Don’t Take the Risk - Never Amber Gamble!

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