Police target motorists who flout traffic laws

Operation Vortex, the successful road safety campaign run by Devon and Cornwall Police, is to be staged again throughout the M5 on Monday 22 December.

Police will be using a number of unmarked vehicles to help target motorists who disregard road traffic laws and cause danger to others.

The operation will be focussing on tackling the ‘Fatal Four’ behaviours - namely excessive or inappropriate speed, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, not wearing a seat belt and driver distractions which includes the use of mobile devices whilst behind the wheel.

Those caught committing offences may face anything from a warning or fixed-penalty ticket to a court appearance. The consequences could mean a fine, disqualification or possible imprisonment, depending on the nature of the offence.

Inspector Andy Hamilton, Head of Roads Policing, said: “As speed increases the probability of death or serious injury increases.  Research shows that a reduction of speed by an average of just 1mph could lead to an overall 5% reduction in collisions.

“There are drivers on our roads today who have little if any thought for other road users; excess speed, and inappropriate driving are the two of the major factors in most serious collisions.

“Driving under the influence, and distractions including using a mobile device whilst driving are other examples of complacent and arrogant approach to driving that needs to be dealt with, and we hope that Op Vortex will help tackle motorists who flout road traffic laws."

Sergeant Gary Williamson of the Safer Roads Support Unit, added: “A minority of drivers have a complacent and sometimes flippant attitude to driving and this can lead to careless and dangerous driving which can have catastrophic consequences.

“Our intention is to make everyone think constantly about their driving behaviour and not only at times when a marked police car is in sight. Law-abiding motorists have nothing to fear from this initiative.”

Police will be patrolling the M5 between junctions 27 and 31 throughout Monday 22 December.