Police catch 100 vehicles speeding in Newton Abbott as part of National ‘Fatal Five’ campaign

Throughout April, Devon & Cornwall Police are carrying out proactive operations, targeting drivers who ignore road traffic laws and put lives at risk.

In an effort to reduce serious and fatal collisions, Roads Policing Officers from Devon & Cornwall Police are working alongside Patrol Officers, the Personal and Professional Development Unit, Special Constables and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to carry out road safety operations as part of a national campaign which aims to reduce the number of collisions and casualties as a result of the ‘Fatal Five’.

There are five main contributory factors that cause serious road traffic collisions, these are known as the ‘Fatal Five’. The ‘Fatal Five’ consists of careless driving, drink/drug driving, failing to wear seatbelts, using mobile phones (and other in-car distractions) and speeding.

During an operation held in Newton Abbott on Thursday 11 April 2024, officers discovered:

• 100 vehicles travelling at excessive speed
• 8 people not wearing seatbelts
• 2 drivers using mobile phones
• 1 suspected drug driver
• 3 vehicles with insecure loads
• 3 overweight vehicles
• 8 vehicles with illegally tinted windows
• 4 people driving without insurance
• 2 e-scooter offences
• 2 illegal number plates
• 1 modified car with undeclared modifications

Sergeant Jon Barry, who heads up patrol teams in South Devon and led the operation, said: “We’re working with officers from the Alliance Roads Policing Team to reduce the number of people killed and injured on the roads of Devon and Cornwall.

“We know the vast majority of motorists are careful and considerate drivers who stick to the rules and drive at a safe speed, but sadly some motorists do not adhere to the law and that decision can have devastating consequences for themselves and other road users.

“Our aim is to keep everyone safe on our roads by making sure those who commit offences are caught and dealt with appropriately.”

Operational activity with a focus on the ‘Fatal Five’ will continue across Devon and Cornwall for the remainder of April.

Drivers who commit offences could receive a fine and points on their licence, a court appearance and even imprisonment for more serious offences.