British police roll out unmarked trucks to curb road violations
The police have been using unmarked patrol cars for many years to effectively monitor traffic and catch drivers violating laws. In the UK, officers have decided to introduce unmarked trucks into their fleet.
The British police have decided to introduce unmarked trucks into their patrol fleet, which serve as mobile patrol vehicles. Although this method is unusual, it has quickly proven highly effective in identifying drivers breaking traffic regulations.
The program started in 2015, initially focusing on professional drivers who were often caught using phones while driving. The effectiveness of this initiative led the police to include unmarked trucks in their preventive measures permanently.
Police use unmarked trucks
The British road police have specially adapted DAF trucks equipped with blue warning lights discreetly placed behind the grille. This setup allows officers to signal stops when they notice an offence.
Each truck carries a two-person police team – a driver and a passenger with a camera who, thanks to the vehicle's height, has an excellent view of the interiors of overtaken car cabins. This perspective allows them to closely monitor driver behavior, which would be impossible from a standard patrol car.
Officers pay particular attention to drivers using phones and tablets while driving – one of the main road hazards. Fines for such offences can be up to £2,500 (about $4,500 CAD), which is a significant financial burden and effectively discourages risky behaviour.
In response to the positive results of the program, the British police intend to gradually increase the number of unmarked trucks to enforce regulations even more effectively. Special patrol vehicles can currently be seen not only on highways but also on dual carriageways.
