Officers have already stopped a suspected drug driver, a motorist using a mobile phone, over fourteen speeders and two people not wearing seatbelts as part of an operation clamping down on the most dangerous road traffic offences as roads start to return to normal following the Covid lockdown.
They also stopped vehicles with no tax, insurance or MOT so, once again, the public is being asked, if you are returning to our roads, please make sure your vehicle is roadworthy, insured and taxed and that you take some time to get used to road conditions once again if you haven’t driven for a while.
The Constabulary would like to say thanks again to our Specialist Operations Team, Special Constabulary and Local Policing Teams for running the operation and managing to cover every area of the county.
This week, the operation will continue, alongside a focus on the national Two Wheel campaign, with Wednesday (14 April) dedicated to educating motorists about keeping a safe distance when overtaking those on two wheels and Friday (16 April) onwards focussing on ensuring motorcyclists have kept their bikes to the necessary safety standard during recent months.
Many people may be returning to the roads for the first time in a long time so we would also ask everyone to give their vehicles a thorough inspection covering aspects including tyres, fuel and oil. There’s a very helpful summary here:
Show your vehicle some TLC in lockdown - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) ...
Those on two wheels are also asked to think about road safety, particularly if they haven't used their bike during lockdown.
Key points there include:
• Ensure your bike or motorcycle is roadworthy. Check your lights, tyres, reflectors and brakes.
• Be seen – make sure you’re wearing bright and protective clothing.
• Take care when on the road, give timely and clear signals and look out for other drivers who might not have seen you.
• Motorcyclists – take care when overtaking and on country roads.
• Ride to the weather conditions, slow down and stay safe.