Five drivers arrested as part of Fatal Five operation in South Devon

Police recently carried out a road traffic operation in Teignbridge, Torbay and South Hams to check driver behaviour and reduce the number of incidents which cause serious injury or even fatalities.

The operation, which visited places including, Bovey Tracey and Torquay, was staffed by several Special Constables, as well as Roads Policing and Patrol officers. Drivers were given advice and reminded of the Fatal Five road safety campaign which aims to improve awareness about the five most common causes of deaths and serious injuries on our roads – distraction, including mobile phones; not wearing seatbelts; driving under the influence of drink and/or drugs; driving at inappropriate speeds and driver health issues, such as poor eyesight.

As autumn approaches and the evenings get darker Devon & Cornwall Police is reminding anyone getting behind the wheel to make sure their vehicle is legal and roadworthy, as well as urging them to drive sensibly, stick to speed limits and steer clear of drink or drugs. Drivers should also be aware of potential distractions such as mobile phones and should make sure they are medically fit to drive.  

Patrol Inspector Wes Watkins said: “On this occasion the vast majority of motorists were driving responsibly and lawfully and we thank them for that. 

“It’s important to remind motorists across Devon and Cornwall that we are out and about taking action, especially as the evenings are getting dark, wet and cold which could lead to poor decisions being made when it comes to heading home after a night out. Every day across the UK a number of people are killed on the roads and we want to reduce those incidents. “  

During the operation three drivers were arrested for drink driving and subsequently charged, one driver was arrested and charged for failing to stop and a further arrest took place for dangerous driving. One driver was reported for having no licence, one driver was reported for speeding (average speed over 100mph) and three vehicles were identified as having defects.

Officers also apprehended a man wanted in relation to shoplifting and public order offences. Further road traffic operations will take place in the coming months.

Devon & Cornwall Police are part of the Vision Zero South West road safety partnership working to save lives. For more information about road safety please visit the Force website Road safety | Devon & Cornwall Police

One of the initiatives to reduce drink driving is the Night Bus which runs across Devon and Cornwall on various routes to offer safe and affordable travel after a night out. Why not check if there is a Night Bus in your area? Night buses - Travel Devon