Mobile camera vans will be targeting delivery routes in Devon and Cornwall over the festive period after concerns about the quality of some delivery vehicles and their drivers.
There have been unprecedented demands on delivery and courier services in the lead up to Christmas with the pandemic prompting more online orders than ever before.
As a result of this, many firms have been recruiting more drivers, some of whom have to provide their own vehicles.
However, these companies are being reminded that drivers must be given realistic schedules and ensure their vans are fit for the road and compliant with the relevant legislation.
The Peninsula Road Safety Partnership, which is part of Vision Zero South West, is taking action on this matter and will be operating mobile camera vans on key delivery routes around Devon and Cornwall.
As well as the damage collisions do to people and their friends and families, they also disrupt supply chains and cause extra pressure on emergency services and particularly the NHS during times of peak demand.
A spokesperson for the Peninsula Road Safety Partnership said: “Our goal is to make sure that deliveries are made, and drivers return safely home at the end of their shifts.
“We will be reviewing offences detected and any companies who are identified as systematically flouting the rules and gaining an unfair advantage of their law abiding competitors, will be followed up.”
Alison Hernandez, Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, is chair of the Vision Zero South West partnership and also the national APCC lead for road safety.
Commissioner Hernandez said: “I am concerned that newly hired drivers are not adequately qualified, insured or prepared to be travelling as much as they are.
“We have had reports of delivery drivers speeding in residential areas and travelling in vehicles which appear to be unroadworthy.
“Our officers will remain vigilant and I welcome the use of camera units to monitor key delivery routes.
“I would urge anyone using the roads of Devon and Cornwall to be mindful and do so safely to protect everyone during the festive period.”
For more information about Vision Zero South West, visit the Facebook page here or our Twitter page here.
You can read the full original release on the Devon and Cornwall OPCC website here.
