Last week West Mercia Police teamed up with National Highways for Operation Tramline, a joint national operation aimed at changing driver behaviour. Operation Tramline involves roads policing officers driving an unmarked white HGV tractor unit to give them a clear view of all road users, including drivers of large vehicles.

A plain white HGV tractor unit loaned to West Mercia Police by National Highways has been used over last week giving an elevated position allowing police officers to film risky, unlawful behaviour, such as mobile phone use and seatbelt use within passing vehicles, with these offences being dealt with as appropriate.  The operation has been in place to crack down on offenders who continue to break the law and to help decrease the number of people killed or seriously injured on the motorways and major trunk roads. 

During the week long operation 64 offences were detected on the M54, M50, M5 and M42, such as non seatbelt use, mobile phone use, speeding and not in proper control of the vehicle.

Inspector Darren Godsall West Mercia Police said; “It’s concerning that there are still motorists using our road network that are willing to risk their own and others safety. During this Operation we have witnessed a number of drivers not wearing seatbelts and using their phones behind the wheel.  There is no excuse for people not to know what the law states or the penalties they can receive when they are caught. This Operation is a great demonstration of joint partnership working with National Highways where the ultimate aim is to improve road safety for all and to reduce the amount of people that are killed or seriously injured on our roads”.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “Too many people are being killed or seriously injured on our roads, and I know from the correspondence I receive the devastating effect this has on families and communities. This is why road safety is a core part of my West Mercia Safer Communities Plan, and why working with partners and West Mercia Police we will ensure we are joined up in our mission to increase safety on our roads through both education and enforcement.”