An unmarked Police tractor unit will patrol on roads within the Cleveland and Durham areas to film any offences by large goods vehicle drivers which can be used as evidence in court.
Usually it can be difficult for officers, and motorists, to see into the cab of a large goods vehicle, but with the high tractor officers will be at the same level as the drivers and can see clearly whether any offences are being committed. The National Department for Transport figures show that although goods vehicles account for only 10% of all motorway traffic, they are involved in nearly a third of all collisions.
Officers on patrol in the tractor unit will look at a number of offences such as failure to wear a seatbelt, driving whilst using a mobile phone, tailgating and driving whilst not in proper control of their vehicle. We will also be raising awareness of certain issues which we have seen can be contributory factors in collisions, such as checking blind spots thoroughly.
