05-05-2025
The reason why local police will be behind the wheel of a HGV on the motorways TODAY
Greater Manchester Police will be tackling bad driving from behind the wheel of a HGV cab today as people make their way home after enjoying their Bank Holiday break.
This year marks 10 years of Operation Tramline with police forces across the country teaming up with National Highways to spot drivers committing offences and prevent incidents as a result.
As part of this, National Highways supply HGV camera cabs to police forces across the country.
From the HGV cab's elevated position, officers can spot and record evidence of risky driving behaviour – whatever vehicle the motorist is driving.
Consequences for drivers range from warnings to fixed penalty notices, court summons or arrest.
READ MORE: More than 20 drivers seized following traffic checks in Bolton
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Police also use the initiative as way to engage with people and offer advice to drivers.
Greater Manchester Police will be patrolling the motorways in this way today and again on May 11 in three cabs.
Officers will be back in the truck cabs over the summer too.
10 years of Operation Tramline
Since the launch of the 'Operation Tramline', officers from 35 police forces have recorded more than 51,500 offences using Operation Tramline cabs.
Types of vehicles stopped include:
40% HGV
30% van
30% car
Most common offences recorded over the last decade are:
Not wearing a seatbelt (14,861 offences)
People not wearing a seatbelt are twice as likely to die in a collision.
Using a mobile phone (13,553 offences)
You're also four times more like to be in a collision if you use your phone while driving.
These two offences alone account for over half (54%) of the total number of offences police recorded between 2015 and 2024.
They are said to highlight why safety campaigns such as Operation Tramline are needed .
It's illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send or receive data, while driving or riding a motorcycle.
Using mobile phones while driving - the law.
You must not:
drive dangerously
drive without due care and attention
drive without reasonable consideration for other road users
(Rule 144)
Safe driving and riding needs concentration. Avoid distractions when driving or riding such as:
loud music (this may mask other sounds)
trying to read maps
starting or adjusting any music or radio
arguing with your passengers or other road users
eating and drinking
smoking
