Belt up behind the wheel - or you might find yourself in court

The European TISPOL (European Traffic Police Network) police campaign, including Thames Valley Police, runs until March 15.

Checks will take place at random and at all times of the day and night. Drivers and or passengers who are caught not wearing a seat belt will dealt with using the most appropriate measures, ranging educational diversion, and Fixed Penalty Notices to a summons to attend court.

During the last campaign, 744 motorists were dealt with for failing to wear a seat belt in the Thames Valley.

The number of people reported killed or seriously injured has increased by four per cent to 24,360 from 23,439 in 2013. Child casualties increased by three per cent to 2,060 in year ending September 2014.

Recent survey findings show, seven in every ten people own up to breaking traffic laws, with some sections of the public feeling there is a lack of police enforcement for road traffic offences.

Sgt Chris Appleby, from Thames Valley and Hampshire’s joint roads policing unit, said: “This campaign is another example of the determination and continuous commitment of Thames Valley Police to tackle the important safety issues which lead to death and misery within our communities.

“Drivers and passengers who choose to break the law will be prosecuted.”