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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Paul T Smith

Unmarked police HGV to patrol Falkirk motorways in bid to reduce road deaths

Falkirk motorists are being told to be on their guard as an unmarked Police Scotland HGV lorry starts to patrol motorways across Forth Valley and beyond.

The vehicle has been launched by the national force in a bid to catch irresponsible driving which is hoped will reduce the number of people killed on Scotland's roads.

During a patrol of the M90 Queensferry Crossing yesterday, a woman was caught eating cereal from a bowl as she drove southbound.

The 23-year-old was fined £100 and had three points added to her licence.

Road policing officer Tom Aitken said: "Reducing the number of road casualties is a priority for Police Scotland and we are always looking at ways to enhance our ability to investigate road traffic offences.

"As well as working closely with partners to help make roads safer for all road users, we regularly use footage from dash-cams, head-cams and CCTV to investigate road traffic offences.

"Most people know the effect alcohol and drugs can have on driving, but the small things can be overlooked. It is just not smart eating as you are driving, it is downright dangerous.

"The same goes for using any mobile device and reading. Acting like this means you are distracted and therefore not in proper control of your vehicle. A split second lapse in concentration could result in a crash.

"Not wearing a seatbelt is life-threatening. If you are not fully secure then the consequences if you are involved in a crash could be deadly.

"Road policing officers unfortunately see the devastation this causes and we urge drivers to be responsible and make sure they are safe. Think of the effects a crash could have on your loved ones.

"The HGV enables officers to have a good view of drivers and what they are doing. It is another tool we are using to make Scotland’s roads safer."

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