Police Officers from GMP’sRoads Policing Unit (RPU) are carrying out proactive operations to catch distracted drivers and improve the safety of the roads.
This April, they are nationally shining a spotlight on Fatal 4 offences, which are drink and drug driving, distraction, including the use of mobile phones, speeding and the use of seatbelts.
Using resources such as a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) as part of the National Highways Operation Tramline and from that an inspired development to the use of a Bee Network bus, it allows officers to travel around key routes, including Mancunian Way, into Trafford and Salford during peak periods and use the elevated height to catch drivers in the act, usually whilst distracted by the use of their phone.
The offences are captured on camera and where possible the Motorcycle Unit swoop in to educate the driver at the time after pulling the driver over in a safe location.
On certain occasions, drivers and motorists were observed using their phone, whilst the vehicle was running and on one occasion an HGV driver watching TV in their cockpit.
Sergeant Neil Dalley from GMP’s Commercial Vehicle Unit said; “Commercial vehicles especially have a disproportionate impact due to the size and weight on other road users and pedestrians, which can ultimately have fatal consequences if not given their full attention and respect.
“That is why our focus is aimed at reducing the number of those killed or seriously injured as a result of commercial vehicles but working with the Safer Roads Partnership to continue education and enforcement in equal measure for all road users.
“We will continue to run operations like this throughout the year targeting those committing Fatal 4 offences on our roads as the road always requires your full attention.
“We are constantly trying to send a clear and strong message that if you do take the chance of being on your phone whilst driving you are breaking the law. This means you will receive the relevant punishment when caught, which can include potentially losing your licence, having to pay a large fine and in some cases of causing serious injury having to spend time behind bars meaning it isn’t worth the risk.
“Anyone can report their concerns through the usual methods, but especially through our Operation Snap portal online where we can look to take retrospective action if caught on dashcam footage for those who commit offences such as this on a regular basis.”
