National Highways is working with Police forces across the South East in a fresh bid to improve safety on the M25.
Operation Orbital involves Police using National Highway’s unmarked HGV supercabs to patrol the M25 and record drivers of all types of vehicles committing mobile phone, seatbelt, and other safety offences.
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.
In September National Highways released footage from a “supercab” vehicle showing a driver with a mobile phone held to each ear.
(Picture – National Highways)
