Nearly 200 drivers prosecuted in four days for poor and selfish driving

During the four day long operation 185 drivers were stopped for selfish and careless driving behaviours.

Of those stopped, 179 were Light Goods Vehicles (LGVs) and six cars, 41 drivers were found to be using their mobile phone while driving, 15 were not in proper control of their vehicle, 73 were not wearing a seatbelt and ten were driving without due care and attention.

As part of the operation, a Roads Policing Officer secured an unmarked Heavy Goods Vehicle tractor unit from National Highways to enable them to see into vehicles of a greater height, as well as cars below them.

Roads Policing Acting Sergeant Rodney McEnery explains more, he said: “We’re always pleased to welcome the HGV unit from National Highways.

“Every time we run this operation, we have high numbers of offences recorded, and it highlights the number of drivers who pose a risk on our roads every day. If it makes one driver change their behaviour and think twice, then it’s worth it, as all these offences can and do cost lives. Innocent people die.

“People are always quick to comment how we want to issue tickets and generate income, but it couldn’t be further from the truth. We want safe roads. As police officers we are sadly familiar with seeing death and fatalities on our roads and delivering the news to a family that their loved one has died never gets any easier.

“I urge drivers to think about how they would feel if they killed someone, as ultimately this is what can happen without your full attention being on the road.

“Everyone can take simple steps to reduce risk to other drivers; put your phone away, put your seatbelt on, don’t speed and ensure you’re following the laws surrounding your vehicle’s use.

“We are out there 24 hours a day, seven days a week and will continue to do everything we can to prosecute those who pose a risk, educate drivers and create safer roads.”

The operation ran from 6 March to 10 March. Follow the work of the SYP Operational Support Unit on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.