A month-long roads policing operation aimed at tackling the ‘fatal four’ traffic offences will be carried out by Kent Police officers in April.
Using a mobile phone at the wheel, speeding, not wearing a seatbelt and driving under the influence of drink and/or drugs are the four factors that contribute to the majority of serious or fatal collisions.
Officers from Kent Police’s Roads Policing Unit will be patrolling hotspot locations throughout the county as part of the National Police Chiefs’ Council initiative, supported by colleagues from across the force including special constables, Community Speedwatch volunteers and the Safety Camera Team.
Meanwhile, a separate initiative aimed at keeping motorcyclists safe is also being held over the Easter bank holiday weekend when bike enthusiasts are known to meet and travel in convoy. Officers will be patrolling popular routes to speak with riders, share advice and take enforcement action if required.
Chief Inspector Craig West, Head of Roads Policing, said:
‘Roads policing officers tackle the fatal four offences on a daily basis but campaigns such as these help to focus our efforts and remind all motorists of the importance of sticking to the law when they are in charge of a motor vehicle.
‘Kent Police is fully committed to Kent County Council’s Vision Zero strategy, which has set a target of zero or as close to zero fatalities and life-changing injuries on Kent’s roads by 2050. Our ongoing enforcement activities are key to achieving that aim but motorists must also play their part and take responsibility for keeping themselves and other road users as safe as possible.
‘Anyone who speeds, doesn’t wear a seatbelt, uses a phone at the wheel or drives under the influence of drink or drugs can expect to be stopped and held accountable for their actions, which depending on the circumstances may result in them being arrested and brought before the courts.’