Motorists across the UK are being warned to expect increased police presence as a month-long campaign to tackle dangerous driving starts this week.
July sees the highest number of people killed or seriously injured on the UK road network and Op Spotlight is a targeted national operation to make our roads safer for everyone.
The operation will focus on the four biggest factors in collisions where people are killed or seriously injured: driving under the influence of drink or drugs, mobile phone use, speeding and not wearing a seatbelt. They are known collectively as the Fatal Four.
Officers will be conducting high-visibility patrols and deploying a range of resources to deter and detect dangerous driving behaviour. This includes roadside checks, mobile speed cameras, specialist units targeting specific driving offences.
More than 5,300 motorists were caught committing Fatal Four offences in the West Midlands last year.
A total of 2,648 were arrested for driving while under the influence, with 1,290 motorists caught speeding, 480 caught without wearing a seatbelt, and 942 caught using mobile phones.
It’s important to remember that speed limits are in place for a reason, and exceeding them is not only dangerous but also illegal. The minimum penalty for speeding can include a £100 fine and three points added to your licence.
Distracted driving also posed a serious threat, with officers pulling over hundreds of drivers for using their mobile phones while behind the wheel.
This simple safety measure of the seatbelt can be lifesaving in the event of a collision.
Chief Inspector Keeley Bevington, from our Traffic unit, said: “Far too many people are tragically killed or injured on our roads each year. This simply cannot be accepted as the norm. We will take strong action against those who endanger the lives of others through reckless driving.
“The campaign will see an increased police presence on the roads throughout the summer months. Officers will be conducting roadside checks, focusing on deterring and enforcing for offences related to the Fatal Four, and targeting areas known for dangerous driving.
“However, policing alone cannot solve this issue. We need everyone to take responsibility for their actions behind the wheel. Drivers must be accountable and consider the devastating consequences their choices can have. Remember, your car is a powerful tool, and in the wrong hands, it can become a deadly weapon.”
With England entering the Euros quarter-finals this weekend, our officers will be out in force to catch dangerous drivers who put lives at risk by driving under the influence of alcohol.
If you witness dangerous driving in progress, call 999 immediately. Be sure to be in a safe location and not driving yourself when you make the call.
For incidents that have already occurred, submit your dashcam footage through our Operation Snap portal. This allows you to upload video evidence directly to the police for review.
Once submitted, your report or footage will be reviewed and we’ll take action where we can.
By reporting dangerous driving, you can play a vital role in keeping our roads safer for everyone.