Unmarked HGV ‘supercabs’ will patrol M25 in bid to reduce crashes
Police in Surrey and Hampshire have teamed up with the Highways Agency to use specially adapted HGVs to film unsafe driving on the M25 for the next two weeks.
The new crackdown will see the so-called 'supercabs' patrolling the M25 and recording drivers committing various offences including using a mobile phone and not wearing a seatbelt.
During Operation Orbital last year, 481 vehicles were stopped in Surrey and Sussex.
The operation will also see enforcement agencies carry out checks on vans and lorries for road worthiness, secure loads, weight, and drivers’ hours to reduce the risk of incidents along the route.
Colin Evans, regional road safety coordinator for National Highways in the South East, said:
“Over 7,500 vehicles travel round the M25 every hour, ranging from commuters getting to work to haulage firms delivering goods along the route or overseas.
“The vast majority of drivers obey the law but a few are risking potentially devastating consequences by not carrying out appropriate checks before setting off or by driving dangerously.
“The two weeks of action will see enforcement agencies carrying out checks along the M25 to help improve safety for everyone.”
The HGV supercabs, which are funded by National Highways, allow police officers to film evidence of unsafe driving behaviour by pulling up alongside vehicles, and drivers are then pulled over by police cars following a short distance behind.
The cabs have derestricted speed limiters, which means they can travel at speeds up to the national speed limit, and have flashing lights for use in an emergency.
National Police Chiefs’ Council Lead for Roads Policing, Chief Constable Jo Shiner said:
“Operation Orbital is a successful collaboration between the police and National Highways. We remain committed to tackling those who take unnecessary risks with their own safety and the safety of others on our roads by allowing themselves to be distracted while driving.
The consequences of these actions are often devastating. We will continue to work alongside National Highways on Operation Orbital and will take action against drivers who ignore the risks.”
Operation Orbital is being co-ordinated by National Highways and involves DVSA plus police forces from the Metropolitan Police, City of London Police, Hertfordshire, Essex, Kent, Surrey and Thames Valley Police .
It is running from Monday (15 November) for two weeks.