Scarborough Cops Take to Double-Deckers in Road Safety Crackdown – On 27 November 2023, Scarborough and Eastfield police teamed up with local double-decker firm EYMS to launch the clever new Operation Deck.
High-Up Eyes Spot Mobile Phone Offenders
Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) jumped aboard double-decker buses, using the top deck as a lookout point to catch distracted drivers red-handed. The elevated view gave them a clear line of sight to spot motorists illegally using hand-held mobiles – one of the UK’s biggest road killers.
Targeting the ‘Fatal 5’ Road Menaces
Operation Deck zeroed in on the notorious ‘Fatal 5’: distracted driving, careless driving, drunk and drug driving, seatbelt offences, and speeding. Mobile phone use topped the list for immediate action.
Quick Hits and Fast Fines
On Sunday 26 November, PCSOs scanning from buses flagged offenders to waiting officers in patrol cars. The result? Multiple drivers caught out, tickets slapped on windshields, and many admitting guilt thanks to the airtight evidence from the bus lookout.
PC Zac Waterman Issues Stark Warning
“Mobile phone use at the wheel isn’t just dangerous – it’s deadly. Our work with EYMS shows the power of teamwork in keeping roads safe. Offenders face a £200 fine and six penalty points. We’re not stopping here – Operation Deck is just getting started,” said PC Zac Waterman.
Stricter Mobile Phone Laws Crack Down on Drivers
Since March 2022, the law has tightened. It now bans not only calls and texts but also checking the time, notifications, browsing data, or even rejecting calls. Exceptions? Emergency calls and quick contactless payments when stationary, like at car parks or drive-thrus.
North Yorkshire Police Vow to Keep the Pressure On
North Yorkshire Police are doubling down on road safety. Their message is clear: if you break the mobile phone rules behind the wheel, you’ll be caught. Operation Deck’s success means more action days to come – so watch out, drivers!
