Fatal A24 crash sparks heartfelt plea from Horsham firefighters

Black Watch at Horsham Fire Station was called to attend a road traffic collision on Sunday on the A24 at Southwater shortly before 1.30pm in which a young man lost his life, the fire service said.

A spokesman added: “The cause of the collision remains under investigation by Sussex Police at this stage, but Black Watch would like to remind all road users to take extra care when out on the roads in the run up to, during and beyond the festive season.”

Crew Manager Ed Coulson said: “Our condolences go out to the young man’s family and friends, from all that attended the incident on Sunday and our thoughts are with them at this difficult time.

“As emergency responders, we all too often see first-hand the devastation of collisions, but it seems more common and particularly sad at this time of year.

“We are all affected by these terrible incidents and deal with the aftermath. Please take extra care on the roads this winter.”

Nicki Peddle, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Head of Prevention, added: “Our deepest condolences go to the family of the young person who died. It’s a brutal reminder of how terrible a collision can be. So we want to do all we can to help drivers and passengers keep themselves and other road users safe.

“We offer the following advice to help keep yourself and others safe.”

The fire service gave the following tips for drivers:

Make sure your vehicle is well maintained – make sure to check fuel, lights, oil, water, electrics and tyres are all okay and safe

Drive for the conditions – in wet or icy weather you will need to make sure you have extra stopping distance

Consider the fatal four, the main reasons for injuries and loss of life in road traffic collisions, these are use of mobiles, non-use of seatbelts, excessive speed and drink/drug driving.

The fire service’s Safe Drive Stay Alive driver awareness programme is also available free of charge for people to view on the West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service YouTube channel here.