Drivers urged to use caution

Jan 1 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

LOCAL police officers are urging the people of Perth and Kinross to use common sense to avoid getting 2010 off to a bad start.

Tayside Police Inspector Grant Edward said the region has possibly seen the worst of the recent bad weather.

Emergency services were called to deal with a one-vehicle accident on the A85 Crieff Road, near Lochty, where a red Seat overturned.

The female driver received treatment for minor injuries at PRI and a child escaped unhurt.

And the A9 has been grid-locked several times – most recently after a lorry jack-knifed near the Highland Spring premises at Blackford on Tuesday afternoon, the same day as the Lochty incident.

Inspector Edward said: “I would ask people only to travel unless absolutely necessary.

“And members of the public should make sure that their own vehicles are suitable,” he said.

With many motorists experiencing lengthy delays, Inspector Edward encouraged patience.

He continued: “Before people leave they should check their route is clear.

“There are regular bulletins on radio stations and Traffic Scotland website – trafficscotland.org.uk – is up-dated all the time.

“Planning is key, people should wear appropriate clothing, travel with food and drink just in case.

“I would stress that people shouldn’t really go anywhere unless they really have to,” he said.