Approximately 300 drink or drug drive offences were detected by police forces across Europe during a recent HGV and bus enforcement campaign – double the number in corresponding campaign in 2018.
Between 19-24 February, checks of HGVs and coaches took place in 29 TISPOL member countries – including the UK – with the emphasis on ensuring drivers are ‘legally rested’ and their vehicles roadworthy.
A total of 103,515 HGVs and 18,047 buses were checked, with more than 33,000 violations reported (HGVs: 30,014, buses: 3,371).
While most of the offences were violations of drivers’ hours regulations, 212 alcohol and 86 drug offences were detected – nearly double the rate from 2018, when 80 alcohol and 35 drug-driving offences were recorded.
The most common bus violations included non-wearing of seatbelts (22), excessive speed (18) and technical defects (eight).
Volker Orben, a member of TISPOL’s executive committee, said: “European police officers have a very high standard of training in heavy traffic controls, which is reflected in the high complaint rate.
“These results show that inspections in the area of heavy goods traffic and passenger transport are still an important approach to improve traffic safety.
“Especially in the field of passenger transport, passengers must be able to rely on the fact that the vehicles are in perfect technical condition and the drivers are not fatigued.”
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