POLICE have launched a new phase of a crackdown on "irresponsible" drivers using Staffordshire's roads.
A HGV cab has been loaned to Staffordshire Police by National Highways as part of Operation Tramline – with similar previous operations helping to identify more than 1,000 offences.
The initiative was launched yesterday (7th September) and saw 23 drivers identified in the space of four hours on the county's roads, including the A38 and A5.
So far, ten motorists have been reported for mobile phone offences – including four HGV drivers – with four people reported for seatbelt offences and three other vehicles stopped for being in a dangerous condition.
Alongside this, one HGV driver was reported for having an insecure load and another was reported for being four tonnes overweight. The HGV companies will also be reported to the Traffic Commissioner for possible further action.
Inspector Chris Moss said:
"We know most drivers, who use our roads every day, are sensible and safe behind the wheel, but a minority are putting themselves and others at risk by engaging in dangerous behaviours.
"Ultimately, our overall goal is to reduce the number of incidents caused by dangerous driving and improve safety on our roads, working in partnership with National Highways, to identify as many offences as possible and remind people of their responsibilities to protect themselves and others when behind the wheel.
"Surpassing the 1,000 milestone acknowledges how important operations like this are in keeping our roads safe, and though we do not want to be having to stop and report people for offences, every time we do, we know we are improving the safety of our road network for all who use it."
Deputy Staffordshire Commissioner Dave Evans spent time with the Operation Tramline team during the launch of the new crackdown.
He said:
"We are still losing too many people on our roads each year.
"Operation Tramline is part of the vital work that our Road Crime Team is doing, working in partnership with National Highways, to ensure our motorways and main strategic roads are as safe as possible."
