Blaenau Gwent Road Safety Campaign Shines Headlights on Vehicle Safety and Maintenance
Officers spoke to 100 drivers in Blaenau Gwent between October and November to check their vehicles were fit for the road and share some winter maintenance advice.
PC Phillip Thomas said: “We’re committed to increasing road safety and have recently been talking to drivers about the steps they can take to ensure their vehicles are safe to be driven.
“Now that we’re in December, where icy roads, dark evenings and changeable driving conditions are commonplace, it’s important road users keep themselves and others safe by undertaking vital maintenance checks.”
During the campaign, officers checked the condition of tyres, headlights, external lights, fluid levels and whether drivers were wearing seatbelts. As part of the operation, officers also gave out leaflets detailing the five main causes of casualties on UK roads: The Fatal 5.
The most common issues officers found during their checks related to bald, or excessively worn, tyres and faulty headlights.
39 traffic offence reports (TORs) were issued throughout the campaign, including reports for driving without an MOT, driving while using a mobile phone or for using vehicles with defects.
Action was also taken against drivers using vehicles illegally.
19 vehicles were seized where drivers were found be driving without a licence or without valid insurance.
Additionally, three drivers were arrested on the suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs, while three were arrested on the suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.
PC Thomas added: “Everyone has a responsibility to ensure their vehicles are safe and fit for use on the road. With people visiting family and friends over the festive period, it’s important we take time to ensure the vehicle is safe before setting off.
“Things like checking your tyre tread and pressure will make sure you’ve got enough traction and grip on icy, wet surfaces, while checking your lights not only improve your ability to see the road ahead – but also make you visible to others.
“As we approach Christmas, we’d also like to remind motorists of the dangers of driving under the influence of drink and drugs. Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol impairs your judgement and ability to react, putting yourself and others at risk. It is never acceptable.”
For more advice on vehicle safety checks this winter, please click here.