Police target 'irresponsible' A96 drivers
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More than 100 vehicles were stopped by police in one day as part of an operation to tackle irresponsible driving on the A96 between Aberdeen and Inverness.
Road policing officers worked along the length of the road on June 21 as part of ongoing efforts to tackle speeding, inappropriate driving and vehicle roadworthiness.
Of those stopped, 15 were charged with alleged speeding offences, while another three were charged with insurance offences.
Officers charged one motorist for allegedly using a mobile phone at the wheel and another for failing to wear a sea belt.
Another charge was made for careless driving and two motorists were charged for having no MOT certificates.
Police said three uninsured vehicles were also seized and three were prohibited for being un-roadworthy.
In addition, 37 drivers received warnings relating to speeding, careless driving, minor vehicle defects and minor road traffic offences.
Road Policing Sergeant Colin Matheson said: "Police Scotland is committed to road safety and collision reduction and we carry out regular patrols on roads throughout the country.
"The A96 is a very busy route through the area and we receive calls regularly from people concerned about the behaviour of drivers, some of whom put other people and themselves in danger.
"This operation was carried out in response to these safety concerns and was aimed at positively influencing driver behaviour and checking the roadworthiness of vehicles.
"Three vehicles were found to be in a condition where a prohibition notice was issued – these vehicles cannot be used on the road until the defects are repaired, the vehicle re-inspected and the prohibition removed.
"There are also still too many people taking the risk and driving without insurance. When a driver is detected for having no insurance they will be charged and either reported to the Procurator Fiscal or receive a Conditional Offer of Fixed Penalty. The minimum fine for insurance offences is £300 and 6 penalty points and offenders risk having their vehicles seized."
Sgt Matheson said it is hoped operations like this one send out a lasting message that dangerous or inappropriate driving behaviour will not be tolerated.
"Officers will continue to provide a visible presence on routes like the A96, providing assistance to motorists when required and taking enforcement action when necessary," he added.
